How do oxyacetylene torches cut metal?

The process involving oxyacetylene torches cutting metal primarily relies on the chemistry of combustion and oxidation. In this method, a mixture of oxygen and acetylene gas produces an extremely high-temperature flame. This flame heats the metal to its melting point. Once the metal is sufficiently heated, a high-pressure stream of pure oxygen is directed onto the molten metal, causing it to rapidly oxidize and form oxides. This oxidation process not only helps in cutting the metal but also accelerates the removal of the molten material, enabling a clean and efficient cut.

This process effectively combines both heating and oxidation, leading to a rapid cutting action that becomes more efficient as the temperature rises, demonstrating the significance of the oxidizing agent in the reaction. The other options describe unrelated processes or incorrect mechanisms for cutting metal, such as using steam, electrical resistance, or solely melting without the oxidation step.