What does the flash point indicate?

The flash point is a critical safety characteristic of flammable liquids. It signifies the minimum temperature at which a liquid generates sufficient vapor to form an ignitable mixture with air. This is essential for understanding whether a substance poses a fire hazard under specific conditions.

At the flash point, enough vapor is produced to ignite when exposed to a spark or flame, creating a risk of fire or explosion. Consequently, knowing the flash point is vital for safe handling and storage of chemicals, particularly in environments where ignition sources may be present.

This definition aligns perfectly with the correct answer, emphasizing the relationship between a liquid’s temperature and its potential to ignite. Understanding flash points helps professionals in hazardous materials management assess risks and implement appropriate safety measures.