Combustion is defined as:

Combustion is characterized as a rapid chemical reaction that occurs between a fuel and oxygen, which produces heat and light. This definition encompasses the essential components of combustion: the requirement of both a fuel source (like wood, gasoline, or other flammable materials) and an oxidizing agent (commonly oxygen from the air). During this process, the fuel undergoes transformation, resulting in combustion products such as carbon dioxide, water vapor, and energy in the form of heat and light.

This specific definition is crucial for firefighters and those involved in fire safety, as understanding combustion dynamics helps in recognizing how fires start and spread, which in turn guides appropriate firefighting strategies and safety measures. The rapid nature of the reaction distinguishes it from other types of chemical changes that may occur more slowly or without the immediate release of energy in the form of heat and light.