Which method is often employed to determine a fire's cause?

The analysis of fire patterns and evidence is a crucial method for determining a fire's cause because it involves a systematic examination of how the fire developed and spread within a structure. Investigators look for specific indicators such as burn patterns, the location of the fire's origin, and the presence of accelerants. These patterns can provide significant clues about whether the fire was accidental, intentional, or the result of a malfunctioning device.

By carefully studying the way the fire interacted with various materials—such as walls, flooring, and furniture—investigators can reconstruct the events leading up to the ignition and progression of the fire. This method relies on scientific principles related to fire behavior and can yield evidence that supports a specific cause. The systematic approach reduces the likelihood of oversight and allows for an informed analysis that is essential in fire investigation, making it the most reliable method among the options provided.