Certified Fire Investigator Practice Exam

What is the temperature range of cigarette embers during a free burn?

1. 450-750 F

2. 930-1300 F

3. 1200-1400 F

4. 1700-1900 F

The correct answer is: 930-1300 F

The temperature range of cigarette embers during a free burn typically falls between 930 to 1300 degrees Fahrenheit. This range indicates the thermal conditions under which cigarette embers can sustain combustion and produce heat. The temperature is high enough to ignite nearby combustible materials, which is essential for understanding fire dynamics related to cigarette-induced fires. Understanding this temperature range is crucial for fire investigators since it helps them assess potential fire scenarios and the role that cigarette embers may play in igniting fires. By being aware of the combustion characteristics of cigarettes, investigators can better evaluate the evidence at a fire scene, link it to specific ignition sources, and ultimately determine fire causes effectively. Other temperature ranges provided do not accurately reflect the thermal characteristics of cigarette embers, as they are either too low or too high for the actual conditions observed during a typical free burn of cigarettes.