explosion

chemical reaction

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June 26, 2026

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An explosion is a rapid release of energy that produces a large volume of expanding gas in a very short time. While there are mechanical and nuclear types, this summary focuses on chemical explosives.1

Chemical explosives are broadly categorized into two types: high explosives (detonating) and low explosives (deflagrating). High explosives, like TNT and dynamite, decompose extremely quickly, generating high pressure. Low explosives, such as gunpowder, burn rapidly but produce less pressure.2

Explosions occur when a chemical reaction accelerates, either due to increased temperature (thermal explosion) or a chain reaction. Detonation, a form of explosion, involves a shock wave that propagates at supersonic speeds, causing self-ignition of the material.34

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blast injury
…primarily from exposure to an explosion. Blast injuries may be inflicted by waves traveling in gases, liquids, or solids. The first is exemplified by the air blast caused by bomb explosions. Underwater blasts may originate from torpedoes, mines, and depth charges. Solid blast is the effect of a pressure wave
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…primarily from exposure to an explosion. Blast injuries may be inflicted by waves traveling in gases, liquids, or solids. The first is exemplified by the air blast caused by bomb explosions. Underwater blasts may originate from torpedoes, mines, and depth charges. Solid blast is the effect of a pressure wave
Read More

combustion
Explosions
The transition from combustion to explosion is caused by an acceleration of the reaction, induced either by a rise in temperature or by increasing lengths of the reaction chain. The first is called thermal explosion, and the second is called chain explosion.
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The transition from combustion to explosion is caused by an acceleration of the reaction, induced either by a rise in temperature or by increasing lengths of the reaction chain. The first is called thermal explosion, and the second is called chain explosion.
Read More