What happens when the cutting process generates heat?

When the cutting process generates heat, typically due to the high temperatures produced by the oxyfuel flame, it causes the metal at the cutting site to melt. As the metal heats up, it reaches its melting point, leading to the formation of molten metal. When this molten metal solidifies as it cools, it can create dross, which is a waste material usually composed of oxides and other impurities. Dross forms because there are contaminants and metal oxides that are brought to the surface during the cutting process. Understanding this phenomenon is important for both the quality of the cut and the subsequent processing of materials.

The other options reflect inaccurate interpretations of what occurs during the cutting process. While the metal does change state by melting and potentially forming dross, it doesn't simply remain unchanged. The assertion that oxides dissipate immediately overlooks the nature of how metal reacts to heat and oxidation, as they often solidify into dross rather than just dissipating.