What is oxidation?

Oxidation is defined as a chemical change that occurs when a substance combines with oxygen. This process is fundamental in various chemical reactions, including combustion, where materials react with oxygen to produce heat and light. In the context of fire investigation, understanding oxidation is crucial because it is a primary component of the combustion process. When materials burn, they undergo oxidation, releasing energy in the form of heat, which is essential for fire behavior.

The other choices provided do not accurately define oxidation. While fire patterns, extinguishing methods, and processes that slow down combustion are all related to fire dynamics, they do not describe the chemical reaction of oxidation itself. For instance, fire patterns are the results of fire behavior rather than an intrinsic chemical process, and extinguishing methods focus on controlling or interfering with combustion rather than the oxidation reaction taking place.