In the context of fire behavior, what does a lower flash point indicate?

A lower flash point indicates a higher risk of ignition for a substance. The flash point is the lowest temperature at which a volatile substance can vaporize to form an ignitable mixture with air. Thus, when a material has a lower flash point, it means that it can ignite at a lower temperature, making it more susceptible to catching fire in environments where it might be exposed to heat or sparks.

This characteristic is important for handling and storage safety, as materials with lower flash points require more stringent controls to prevent accidental ignition. In contrast, a higher flash point signifies that a substance is less likely to ignite under similar conditions, leading to a reduced risk of fire hazards. Understanding flash points helps in assessing fire risks associated with various materials, guiding the necessary safety precautions for storage and use.