ember

An ember is a small piece of burning or glowing coal or wood that remains after the most active flames have died down. Embers are the incandescent, hot remnants of a fire, typically persisting in a bed of ash. They glow due to the heat of the remaining fuel undergoing slow oxidation.

Ember formation: During combustion, heat drives off moisture and volatile gases; as fuel carbon remains, oxidization occurs at a slower rate, producing light and heat. Embers can last for minutes to hours depending on fuel, airflow, and the size of the fragment. They tend to glow orange to red and can reach temperatures sufficient to ignite nearby tinder or rekindle larger flames.

In use and safety: Embers provide sustained heat and are used in some cooking methods, such as charcoal grilling and fire pits. They can reignite if exposed to oxygen and additional fuel, so proper containment and supervision are important. Conversely, scattered embers can start fires in dry vegetation or structures if left unattended.

Related concepts: Embers are contrasted with fully extinguished coals, ashes, and fresh flames. In art and literature, ember imagery often conveys warmth, memory, or enduring vitality.