What characteristic does a competent ignition source have?

A competent ignition source is defined by its ability to provide sufficient energy to ignite a fuel. This means the source can produce enough heat or energy to raise the temperature of the fuel to its ignition point, causing it to catch fire.

In fire dynamics, ignition is a critical phase, and understanding the characteristics of an ignition source is essential for fire prevention and control. For a source to be competent, it must not only generate heat but do so to a level that overcomes the fuel's heat resistance.

Competing options illustrate different characteristics that do not align with the nature of a competent ignition source. Insufficient energy would mean the source lacks the capability to ignite anything. An inability to raise temperature directly contradicts the functional definition of an ignition source. Finally, temporary contact with fuel does not describe the sustained energy necessary for ignition; it merely indicates a momentary interaction that may not lead to a fire without an adequate and enduring energy supply.

Thus, a competent ignition source is identified by its provision of sufficient energy, confirming that option B is indeed the correct choice.