Prevent Oxidation Reduce Temperature Science Project Idea

How Destructive Oxidation May be Prevented by Reducing the Temperature Below the Kindling Point

Throwing water on a fire, you all know, is the usual way of putting it out. Why do you suppose it is so effective? Do you think that the amount thrown by the firemen upon a big fire will prevent the air getting to the fire? Why, then, is water so valuable for putting out a fire? Reference to your study of ventilation will help to answer this question. What was the effect of evaporation of moisture on the skin? What becomes of the water that is thrown on the fire? What effect will this have upon the temperature? A wet piece of wood does not burn readily because the heat applied is used in evaporating the water instead of raising the wood to its kindling temperature.

Sum up your conclusions as to the importance of water in lowering the temperature of a burning substance below the kindling temperature. Do not forget that the water and steam produced are also useful in preventing the access of air.