Where does the highest temperature of an Oxyacetylene flame occur?

The highest temperature of an oxyacetylene flame occurs just off the end of the inner cone. In an oxyacetylene flame, there are multiple zones, primarily the inner cone, outer cone, and the region of combustion outside these zones. The inner cone is where the actual combustion of the acetylene gas occurs, and it is characterized by a blue color, indicating a more efficient and complete burn due to the optimal mixture of oxygen and gas.

The peak temperature is found just beyond the end of this inner cone because this is where the combustion gases are fully mixed and at their hottest as they are expelled from the torch. The temperature in this area can reach around 3,500 degrees Celsius. Understanding the temperature gradient in an oxyacetylene flame is crucial for various applications, as it influences the effectiveness of welding, cutting, and brazing processes.

In contrast, the other options represent areas that are not where the maximum temperature is achieved. The tip of the outer flame is cooler and used mainly for heating, the gas nozzle does not generate heat itself but facilitates the flow of gas, and the barrel of the torch carries the gases but is not involved in the combustion process where the highest temperature occurs.