Fullmetal Alchemist: Flame Alchemy, Explained

gamerant.com:

The Fullmetal Alchemist universe is a very interesting one. Governed by alchemy, the anime's events are both intriguing and frightening. A marriage of science and ancient theory, alchemy is more akin to science as opposed to magic, despite its magical-looking aesthetic.

There are various forms of alchemy practiced throughout the anime by its many characters. Colonel Roy Mustang practices Flame Alchemy, a fire-based form. With the snap of his fingers, Mustang is able to utilize flames as he sees fit. There is a lot to be unpacked about Flame Alchemy, so what does this form entail?

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Berthold Hawkeye, Riza Hawkeye's father, is the man who taught Mustang the fundamentals of alchemy. Hawkeye never obtained his alchemist's license, despite his vast knowledge on the subject. He completed his research in Flame Alchemy, the most powerful form of alchemy there is. He has a dislike for the military, even being disappointed in Mustang for joining them. Hawkeye became concerned that if his Flame Alchemy falls into the wrong hands, ill fortune will follow.

Hawkeye fell very ill and did not live long enough to teach Mustang Flame Alchemy. He tells Mustang that all his notes on the subject are with Riza, urging him to take care of her in his last words. It transpires that Hawkeye tattooed this notes onto Riza's back. Using these, Mustang masters Flame Alchemy.

Flame Alchemy is less about fire itself, and more about oxygen. Mustang is able to manipulate oxygen levels and then ignite it, which causes the flame. The ignition is triggered by a spark in some form, normally caused by Mustang's gloves. He has also used a lighter to trigger sparks, such as in his battle with Lust. His gloves