What is the role of an oxidizer in a fire?

The role of an oxidizer in a fire is to facilitate the combustion of fuel. Oxidizers are substances that can provide the oxygen required for fuels to ignite and burn. During the combustion process, fuel reacts with oxygen from the oxidizer, leading to the release of heat and light, which characterizes a fire.

Understanding this role is crucial for fire investigators as it helps them analyze how a fire started and spread. For instance, if a certain area has a substantial presence of an oxidizer, it can explain why a fire intensified quickly in that location.

The other options do not accurately describe the function of an oxidizer. While heat is essential for starting and sustaining a fire, it doesn't come from the oxidizer itself but rather from the combustion of the fuel. Eliminating excess smoke is not a function of oxidizers; it's more about how the fire is managed or controlled. Serving as an ignition source pertains to materials that start a fire, which differs from the role of oxidizers that support ongoing combustion.