What term describes the temperature above the flash point needed to sustain combustion?

The term that describes the temperature above the flash point needed to sustain combustion is known as the fire point. The fire point is the critical temperature at which a substance will not only emit sufficient vapors to allow combustion to occur (as indicated by the flash point) but also sustain that combustion for an extended period once ignited. This means that at the fire point, there is enough heat generated to continue the combustion process without additional heat supply.

Understanding the distinction between different terms used in fire safety and combustion is crucial. The flash point indicates the lowest temperature at which a substance can form an ignitable mixture in air, but it does not imply that combustion will continue indefinitely. In contrast, the fire point is specifically focused on the sustainable threshold of temperature needed to maintain burning after ignition has occurred. Recognizing these definitions helps in assessing fire hazards and in the handling of flammable materials safely.