What does the term "flash point" mean in the context of motor fuel?

The term "flash point" refers to the lowest temperature at which the vapors of a combustible liquid can ignite when exposed to an open flame or spark. In terms of motor fuel, understanding the flash point is crucial for safety and handling, as it indicates the point at which the fuel begins to produce enough vapor to form an ignitable mixture with air.

At temperatures below the flash point, while fuel may still ignite under certain conditions, there is not enough vapor present to sustain combustion. Therefore, the flash point serves as an important benchmark in assessing the fire hazards of different fuels. Knowing this temperature helps ensure proper storage, transportation, and safety measures are implemented to prevent accidents associated with flammable materials.

Other options, while related to properties of fuels, do not define flash point correctly and therefore do not provide the accurate meaning required in this context.