Science glossary film: Combustion

Or burning, a chemical reaction that requires an initial source of heat, a fuel, and an oxidising agent such as oxygen, and releases energy as heat and often light. Most of the energy we use every day, to heat our homes, fuel cars, or for cooking, is released through combustion, so understanding the process and maximising its efficiency is an important area of study.

Most of the energy we use every day, to heat our homes, fuel cars, or for cooking, is released through combustion, so understanding the process and maximising its efficiency is an important area of study.