Wildland Firefighting Practice Exam

What is the highest temperature the sun could develop on a wind sheltered surface?

1. 120 or 130 degrees

2. 140 or 150 degrees

3. 150 or 160 degrees

4. 170 or 180 degrees

The correct answer is: 150 or 160 degrees

The highest temperature the sun could develop on a wind-sheltered surface can significantly exceed the ambient air temperature due to the effects of solar radiation and the absence of wind to aid in cooling. On a calm, wind-sheltered surface, the sun's rays can heat materials to much higher temperatures than what is typically experienced in the air. In contexts like wildland firefighting, understanding the temperature levels that materials can reach under direct sunlight is crucial, particularly for assessing fire behavior and safety. The selected range, 150 to 160 degrees, reflects practical observations and measurements in controlled environments. It is feasible for surfaces, like dry grass or leaves, to reach such temperatures when subjected to direct sunlight without the moderating effects of wind. This range indicates a significant potential for ignition under the right conditions, which emphasizes the importance of monitoring environmental factors when dealing with fire hazards. Research and field data support these temperature ranges for sun-exposed surfaces in calm conditions, making this choice the most accurate among the options provided.