What is a characteristic of an arc?

An arc is characterized primarily by a luminous electric discharge that occurs across a gap. This phenomenon is a result of the ionization of air or another medium, allowing electricity to flow through it, creating visible light and heat in the process. The intensity and brightness of an arc can be quite significant, making it a distinctive feature of electrical faults or hazards.

Understanding that arcs can produce heat and potentially ignite surrounding materials is crucial for fire investigation. This characteristic plays an essential role in assessing fire scenes, especially when evaluating electrical fires, as it helps investigators determine the origin and cause of the fire. The luminous nature of an arc can often give clues about the conditions under which a fire started, making it an important aspect of fire behavior and safety.