How Do You Spell SPONTANEOUS COMBUSTION?

Pronunciation: [spɒntˈe͡ɪni͡əs kəmbˈʌst͡ʃən] (IPA)

Spontaneous combustion is a phenomenon in which a material bursts into flames without any apparent external ignition source. The spelling of the word "spontaneous" is /spɒnˈteɪniəs/, while "combustion" is /kəmˈbʌs.tʃən/. The stress falls on the second syllable in "spontaneous" and the first syllable in "combustion". Although the word may be a mouthful to pronounce, its spelling follows standard English phonetic rules. If you want to impress others with your knowledge of the correct pronunciation of this word, just remember its IPA transcription.

SPONTANEOUS COMBUSTION Meaning and Definition

1. Spontaneous combustion refers to the phenomenon where a substance, typically organic or flammable, undergoes self-ignition without the need for any apparent external heat source. It is characterized by the sudden ignition and subsequent combustion of a material due to internal chemical reactions, resulting in a fire outbreak. This process can occur naturally or artificially and is governed by various factors including temperature, oxygen availability, and the presence of easily oxidizable materials.

   Spontaneous combustion commonly occurs in organic materials such as oily rags, hay, coal, or peat, which possess chemical properties that enhance the likelihood of self-ignition. The underlying mechanism involves a heat-producing chemical reaction called oxidation, where the substance reacts with oxygen in the air, releasing heat energy. If the substance is unable to effectively dissipate the heat generated, it can accumulate and reach a critical temperature, initiating combustion. Factors such as moisture content, insulation, and confinement can influence the speed at which this process occurs.

   Spontaneous combustion poses a significant fire risk, as it can occur silently and without warning. It is particularly hazardous as it may be undetectable until flames and smoke emerge. To mitigate this risk, prevention techniques include proper waste management, ensuring adequate ventilation, reducing heat generation, and controlling ignition sources. In cases where spontaneous combustion is suspected or certain materials are prone to this phenomenon, proactive measures such as monitoring and temperature control are often taken to avoid potentially damaging fires.

2. The act of a body taking fire of itself through the chemical action of its own elements.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for SPONTANEOUS COMBUSTION

• apontaneous combustion
• zpontaneous combustion
• xpontaneous combustion
• dpontaneous combustion
• epontaneous combustion
• wpontaneous combustion
• soontaneous combustion
• slontaneous combustion
• s-ontaneous combustion
• s0ontaneous combustion
• spintaneous combustion
• spkntaneous combustion
• splntaneous combustion
• sppntaneous combustion
• sp0ntaneous combustion
• sp9ntaneous combustion
• spobtaneous combustion
• spomtaneous combustion
• spojtaneous combustion

Etymology of SPONTANEOUS COMBUSTION

The word "spontaneous" originated from the Latin word "spontaneus", which means "willing, of one's free will, voluntary". "Spontaneous" was further derived from the Latin word "sponte", meaning "of one's own accord, willingly". "Combustion", on the other hand, comes from the Latin word "combustio", which means "a burning, a setting on fire". Therefore, the term "spontaneous combustion" combines "spontaneous" with "combustion" to describe the phenomenon of something catching fire without an external ignition source.

Similar spelling words for SPONTANEOUS COMBUSTION

• spontaneous generation,
• spontaneous abortion.