What is an inverted cone pattern in fire investigation?

An inverted cone pattern in fire investigation is a specific type of fire burn pattern that occurs when flames spread upward and outward, often resulting in a shape resembling an inverted triangle or cone. This particular pattern arises due to the cone of heat and smoke that forms when a fire has been burning in a confined space, and the flames reach the ceiling and radiate outward from a central point.

The distinctive nature of this pattern is crucial for investigators, as it provides insights into the origin and spread of the fire. Observing an inverted cone shape can indicate that there was a significant amount of fuel near the floor level, which contributed to the upward extension of the fire.

In contrast, while the other choices reference different phenomena related to fire dynamics—such as smoke movement, the reach of flames, and the potential presence of flammable gases—they do not specifically describe the unique characteristics of the inverted cone pattern as effectively as the description of its triangular shape with the base at the bottom. Understanding this pattern can significantly assist fire investigators in determining the cause and development of a fire scene.