What do liquids need to ignite aside from being within a certain temperature range?

For a liquid to ignite, it primarily needs to reach its flash point, which is the minimum temperature at which it can vaporize to form an ignitable mixture in air. However, in addition to temperature, a source of ignition is also crucial. A pilot flame serves as this necessary ignition source, allowing the vapor emitted by the liquid to catch fire.

While other factors like air flow and pressure can influence combustion, they are not essential for ignition in the same way that a pilot flame is. Air flow can provide oxygen, which is vital for combustion but does not independently trigger ignition without the right temperature and an ignition source. High pressure may alter the conditions but does not directly lead to ignition without that flash point being reached and a valid ignition source present. Lastly, a chilling agent would contradict the conditions needed for ignition, as it would lower temperatures rather than provide the necessary heat. Thus, the presence of a pilot flame is fundamental in enabling the actual ignition of flammable liquids.