What is the characteristic of oxygen in terms of combustion?

Oxygen is essential for combustion, as it is a key reactant in the chemical process that produces fire. When a fuel burns, it reacts with oxygen in a process that releases energy in the form of heat and light. This means that oxygen itself does not burn; rather, it enables other substances to combust.

Supporting combustion indicates that oxygen enhances and sustains the burning of fuels. Without adequate oxygen supply, fire cannot occur or continue to burn. Thus, saying that oxygen supports combustion accurately describes its role in the process, which is foundational in understanding fire dynamics and safety protocols in mining and other industries.

Other options are misleading because oxygen itself is not a fuel and does not exhibit flammability or combustibility in the traditional sense.