The "flash point" of a flammable liquid is defined as:

The definition of "flash point" refers to the specific temperature at which a flammable liquid can produce enough vapor to mix with air in a way that could ignite if an ignition source is present. This is a critical safety parameter in handling and working with flammable substances, as it helps to determine how a liquid should be stored and what kinds of precautions need to be taken when it is in use or when it’s in proximity to potential ignition sources.

Understanding the flash point is vital for ensuring safe operations in environments where flammable liquids are present. This concept also distinguishes the flash point from other related concepts, such as spontaneous ignition, which occurs at a higher temperature when a material ignites without an external ignition source, and the simply defined evaporation process, which does not take into account the ignitability of vapors in the air. The maximum safe operating temperature is also a separate consideration related to the limits of process conditions rather than the specific ignitability of a liquid. Overall, knowing the flash point helps in assessing the hazards associated with different liquids and managing risks effectively.