Oxygen is classified as which of the following?

Oxygen is classified as non-flammable because it does not ignite or catch fire on its own. Instead, oxygen is an essential supporter of combustion; it allows other materials to burn and enhances the combustion process. It is often described as an oxidizer because it reacts with flammable materials to facilitate their burning. In the context of this question, while oxygen is involved in combustion reactions, it is not flammable by itself, which is a crucial distinction.

The classification primarily focuses on the property of the element itself, rather than its interactions with other substances. By understanding that non-flammable refers specifically to the inability of a substance to ignite without other combustible substances, it becomes clear why oxygen is categorized this way despite its role in supporting fires. This characteristic is critical for safety and handling practices in various environments, especially in industrial and medical settings where oxygen is used or stored.