What is a flash point of a liquid?

The flash point of a liquid refers specifically to the lowest temperature at which the liquid can produce enough vapor to form a flammable mixture with air. This means at or above this temperature, if an ignition source is present, the vapor can catch fire. This characteristic is crucial for safety and handling of flammable liquids in various settings, including maritime environments.

Understanding this temperature is vital for ensuring that proper precautions are taken to prevent fires, especially when transporting or storing flammable liquids. It helps in determining how a liquid should be handled, what kind of containers should be used, and the safety measures that need to be implemented in working areas where these substances are present.