Fire is a visible manifestation of rapid exothermic oxidation, commonly known as combustion. Scientifically, it is a chemical process that requires three components, historically described as the fire triangle: fuel, an oxidant (such as oxygen), and sufficient heat to initiate the reaction. When these elements interact, the chemical energy stored in the fuel is rapidly converted into thermal energy (heat) and light energy. The intensity and rate of combustion depend on the chemical properties of the materials involved, the available oxidant, and the efficiency of heat transfer. Furthermore, the combustion process can generate complex byproducts, including gases and particulate matter, and the resulting heat can drive phase changes in surrounding substances.