What is an electric spark?

An electric spark is best described as an incandescent particle created by some arcs. When a voltage potential is high enough to overcome the insulating properties of air (or any other medium), it can create an arc discharge, which generates a spark. This spark emits light and heat and can be indicative of electrical activity. The nature of the arc can create particles that glow incandescently due to the high temperature produced, contributing to ignition in certain situations.

The other options highlight different aspects of electricity and fire, but do not accurately encapsulate what an electric spark is. The concept of a small electrical charge generated by static electricity focuses on the accumulation of electrical charge rather than the discharge itself, while a type of fire starter using batteries and a mechanism for igniting explosive materials are both practical applications that don’t define what an electric spark is. Each of these points addresses different phenomena or applications of electricity rather than the defining characteristics of an electric spark itself.