A classification of combustion processes is presented which can be used for dis-cussing influences of microgravity, Profound effects of gravity on combustion arise from the large fractional density changes that generally are associated with combustion. Thus it seems to be rather the rule than the exception that com-bustion experiments under microgravity conditions reveal previously unantici-pated phenomena. A few of these phenomena and their theoretical explanations are presented here. Particular attention is devoted to flame balls and to alco-hol droplet combustion. Some accomplishments of these and other microgravity combustion studies are summarized. Finally, combustion topics which appear to hold greatest promise for benefiting from future microgravity experiments are indicated.
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