Final answer:
In a flashpoint analysis, the flame should be applied to the vapor cup for 3 seconds when in the lowered position to ensure the accurate determination of the flashpoint.
Step-by-step explanation:
When conducting a flashpoint analysis, the correct duration for applying the flame to the vapor cup when in the lowered position is B) 3 seconds. This is standardized procedure in flashpoint testing to ensure consistency and accuracy in the results obtained. The flashpoint is the lowest temperature at which vapors of a volatile material will ignite, when given an ignition source. A too-short exposure might not provide enough energy to ignite the vapor, whereas too long could result in an inaccurate higher measurement.