In fire investigation, which burn pattern indicates that the fire originated at a lower point before spreading upward?

In fire investigation, a V-pattern is a crucial indicator of fire behavior, particularly in determining the origin of a fire. This pattern is formed by the flames and heat rising from a lower point and spreading outward as the fire grows. The shape resembles the letter "V," with the point of the "V" indicating the origin of the fire, which is typically at the lower end of the pattern. This upward spread is a direct result of the natural behavior of fire, which tends to rise due to heat convection.

As the fire spreads upward, it leaves a trail of damage that mimics this V-shape on the surfaces involved. Investigators analyze the direction of the burn patterns to establish how the fire developed and to pinpoint where it started, making the V-pattern essential in fire scene analysis. Identifying this pattern allows investigators to deduce the fire's origin and understand the dynamics of its spread, critical for both investigative and legal purposes.