Gas flames — approximate temperature of an oxy-hydrogen flame What is the typical maximum temperature produced by an oxy-hydrogen flame under normal welding conditions?

Introduction / Context:
Different fuel–oxygen combinations yield distinct flame temperatures. Selecting the right gas mix is important for materials that are sensitive to carbon pickup or require gentler heating.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Flame type: oxy-hydrogen (hydrogen as fuel, oxygen as oxidizer).
• Normal tip, typical neutral adjustment.
• No special pressurised or enriched conditions.

Concept / Approach:
Oxy-acetylene is hotter (around 3200° C) than oxy-hydrogen. Oxy-hydrogen flames typically peak near 2400° C to 2800° C depending on conditions. For standard exam/reference values, 2400° C is commonly accepted as the nominal figure.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify flame pair: H2 + O2.Recall typical range: roughly 2400° C to 2800° C.Select the closest standard figure in the options: 2400° C.

Verification / Alternative check:
Handbooks list oxy-hydrogen with lower temperature than oxy-acetylene; its clean flame is useful for aluminium soldering and certain brazing tasks.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• 1800° C and 2100° C: lower than typical oxy-hydrogen maxima.
• 3200° C: characteristic of oxy-acetylene, not oxy-hydrogen.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing oxy-hydrogen with oxy-acetylene; the latter is significantly hotter but may be unsuitable where carbon pickup must be avoided.

Final Answer:
2400° C