embers

An ember is a small, hot piece of solid fuel that remains glowing after the main flames have burned down. Embers emit light and radiant heat as they continue to oxidize slowly, typically appearing red to orange in color. They are common in fires fueled by wood, charcoal, or coal and can persist long after the visible flame has faded.

Embers form when the volatile components of fuel are consumed and the remaining char and ash retain heat. Their porous, partially burnt structure traps heat and gases, allowing slow oxidation to continue. Temperatures in embers remain high enough to radiate heat, though they decline as cooling proceeds.

Embers can be dispersed by wind or people, and may fall from a fire pit or grate. If fresh oxygen encounters embers, they can re-ignite nearby fuel, sparking sustained flames. Depending on material, size, and moisture, embers can stay hot for minutes to hours after the main fire has ended.

Different fuels produce different ember characteristics. Wood embers are common in fireplaces and campfires; charcoal and coal embers are typical in barbecue grills and industrial furnaces. The energy stored in embers comes from the remaining heat of combustion; incomplete burning tends to leave char, but embers can still ignite other material when conditions permit.

Safety and handling: embers can cause severe burns and start unintended fires. To extinguish, soak with water and stir until no heat remains, or cover with sand or soil. Do not rely on cooling alone; embers may survive for a long time in concealed pockets.