flashing-point
A scientist carefully measures the flashing-point of a clear liquid in a laboratory.
Definition
- Noun:
- Chemistry: "flashing-point" (also spelled "flash point") refers to the lowest temperature at which a volatile substance, such as oil or a chemical, can vaporize to form an ignitable mixture in air near its surface. It is a critical safety measure in handling flammable materials.
Usage Examples
- (The temperature at which the lubricant becomes flammable.)
- (The ignition temperature for safety purposes.)
Advanced Usage
- "to reach one's flashing-point": (figurative, rare) To reach a threshold of anger or volatility, analogous to a chemical's ignition point.
- After hours of provocation, he finally reached his flashing-point and shouted. (He became suddenly angry.)
Variants and Related Words
Flash point (n): The more common spelling of "flashing-point," especially in technical and industrial contexts.
- The flash point of gasoline is extremely low, making it highly dangerous. (The same definition as "flashing-point.")
Flash (v/n): To burn briefly and intensely; a sudden burst of light or flame.
- The oil flash ignited when exposed to the spark. (The oil burned briefly.)
Synonyms
- Ignition point: The temperature at which a substance catches fire.
- Combustion threshold: The minimum condition for burning to begin.
Related Idioms
- Flash in the pan: A sudden but brief success or outburst.
- His career was a flash in the pan, with no lasting achievements. (Not directly related to "flashing-point," but shares the "flash" root.)
Phrasal Verbs
- Flash over: (firefighting) A phenomenon where a fire spreads rapidly across a surface due to reaching its flashing-point.
- The room flashed over when the gas reached its ignition temperature. (The entire area caught fire at once.)
Additional Notes
- The term "flashing-point" is primarily technical and used in chemistry, engineering, and safety manuals. In everyday language, "flash point" is more common.