What does metal to pavement contact typically produce?

Metal to pavement contact typically produces sparks due to the friction generated when these two surfaces come into contact. This phenomenon occurs because metals can generate enough heat from friction to cause small particles, or atoms, of metal to be dislodged from the surface. As these tiny particles are heated to their ignition temperatures, they combust in the presence of oxygen, resulting in the visible sparks.

In many fire investigation contexts, understanding that metal contacts can create sparks is vital, especially when determining the potential sources of ignition in fire scenarios. Conveying the specifics of how metals interact with pavement can help investigators recognize this as a possible ignition source in their analysis. The other options, while related to metal movement or interaction, specifically do not characterize the distinct and recognizable result of sparks formed during such contact.