What type of fire pattern is often V-shaped?

A V-shaped fire pattern is typically associated with plume-generated patterns. This type of pattern occurs as flames and hot gases rise and spread out in a vertical direction from the point of origin, forming a V shape as they move toward the ceiling and walls. The peak of the V can indicate the area of highest heat, commonly where the fire was most intense.

In understanding fire behavior, this pattern helps investigators determine the origin of the fire. As the fire burns, the hot gases rise, and the cooling air, as well as other factors such as the building's architecture and ventilation, can influence the shape of the flames and smoke produced. This gives rise to the characteristic V shape that points back to the source of the fire.

The other options pertain to different types of fire phenomena that do not specifically form a V shape. Ventilation-generated patterns are related to changes in airflow and do not necessarily create a V-shaped formation. Hot gas layer patterns refer to the accumulation of smoke and heat at the ceiling, which can create layers but not specifically V shapes. Ignition patterns generally describe the areas where fire starts, but do not correlate with the V-shaped pattern created by plume generation. Thus, recognizing and understanding plume-generated patterns is crucial for accurate fire investigations