What does a higher concentration of oxygen in an atmosphere typically increase the risk of?

A higher concentration of oxygen in an atmosphere significantly elevates the risk of enhanced combustion. This is because oxygen is a critical component of the combustion process; it acts as an oxidizer that supports and accelerates the burning of materials. When the oxygen concentration increases, even materials that are typically not flammable in normal air conditions can ignite and burn more readily. This can lead to more intense and rapid fires, creating a hazardous environment in both industrial and domestic settings.

In contrast, decreased gas pressure relates more to physical properties of gases rather than fire risk, while extended equipment lifespan and improved ventilation do not inherently become risky due to increased oxygen levels. In fact, improved ventilation can actually help manage oxygen levels and prevent the risks associated with enhanced combustion. Therefore, the correct focus is on how the increased presence of oxygen directly correlates with an increased likelihood of fire-related incidents.