Gypsum board that is exposed to fire for a prolonged time will likely?

Gypsum board, commonly known as drywall, has specific properties that make it fire-resistant. However, when exposed to fire for an extended period, it will eventually lose its structural integrity. The heat from the fire can cause the water in the gypsum core to evaporate, weakening the board's strength and leading it to crumble or disintegrate. This degradation is what is meant by "failing" in this context.

In fire situations, if the gypsum board fails, it can no longer serve its purpose of providing a barrier and protection against flames and heat. Understanding the limitations of materials used in construction, particularly in fire-prone environments, is crucial for firefighters and safety professionals. Recognizing how gypsum board responds under fire conditions helps in assessing fire risk and choosing appropriate fire-resistant materials for structures.

The other options involve different types of failures or reactions under fire conditions, but the ultimate consequence of prolonged exposure to fire for gypsum board, and the focus in this question, is indeed the failure of the material.