What term describes combustion without flame, often exhibiting smoke and incandescence?

The term that describes combustion without flame, often exhibiting smoke and incandescence, is smoldering. Smoldering combustion occurs when a material burns slowly and without an active flame, producing smoke and heat. This type of combustion is most commonly seen in materials like coal or organic materials, where the combustion process can happen in a more controlled and sustained manner compared to flaming combustion.

In smoldering, the temperature of the material can be high enough to produce glowing embers, giving the appearance of incandescence. This process can last a significant amount of time since it does not rely on the vigorous reactions characteristic of flaming fires, allowing it to occur in oxygen-limited conditions.

Understanding smoldering is essential in fire investigations, as it can significantly affect fire behavior, ventilation, and the spread of fire in various materials.