Using a quantitative approach, this book presents an ideal introduction to the scientific principles behind fire behavior. Aimed at non-engineering students, the text covers the four forms of fire: diffusion flames, smoldering, spontaneous combustion, and premixed flames. Individual sections thoroughly discuss such vital issues as heat transfer, ignition, flame spread, fire plumes, heat flux as a damage variable, and more. Formulas help the reader examine fire from a quantitative standpoint. While explaining the science of fire with a precision found nowhere else, the text applies that science to fire safety design and investigation.