Combustion

Combustion or burning is a chemical reaction in which a fuel combines with oxygen (O₂), releasing heat and producing an oxide. The most common types of fuel are organic materials containing carbon and hydrogen, from which the waste products are typically carbon monoxide (CO) or carbon dioxide (CO₂), water (H₂O) and sometimes smoke.

The process of destroying unwanted materials by burning is known as incineration. Incineration is done on a small scale by individuals, and on a large scale by industry.

For burn injuries, see burn.

See also:

• internal combustion engine
• spontaneous combustion
• fire
• deflagration
• detonation