What type of gas is capable of supporting and accelerating combustion?

An oxidizing gas is characterized by its ability to support and accelerate combustion. This type of gas provides the oxygen necessary for a fire to ignite and sustain itself. Whereas combustibles (flammable gases) need an ignition source to catch fire, oxidizing gases inherently enhance the combustion process by supplying more oxygen than would be available in normal atmospheric air.

In contrast, inert gases do not support combustion and can act to suppress fires by displacing oxygen. Flammable gases can catch fire and burn but rely on an oxidizing agent to do so. Non-toxic gases refer to those that are not harmful to inhale but do not directly relate to their flammability or ability to support combustion. Thus, the property of oxidizing gases to provide additional oxygen makes them crucial in understanding fire dynamics and safety protocols, particularly in medical and industrial settings.