E

Explosive

Rapid exothermic decomposition; ΔH << 0; rapid gas expansion
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Quick Reference
Formula / NotationRapid exothermic decomposition; ΔH << 0; rapid gas expansion
Also Known AsHigh explosive; detonating explosive; blasting agent; propellant; pyrotechnic mixture; energetic material

What is Explosive?

An explosive is a reactive substance that can release a large amount of energy in a rapid, exothermic reaction, producing a sudden increase in pressure from rapid gas generation. Explosives are classified as primary (highly sensitive, initiate with heat/shock: lead azide, mercury fulminate), secondary (less sensitive, require a detonator: TNT, RDX), and tertiary (blasting agents: ANFO). The chemistry involves rapid oxidation, decomposition, or both.

Formula & Notation

Rapid exothermic decomposition; ΔH << 0; rapid gas expansion

Other Names / Synonyms: High explosive; detonating explosive; blasting agent; propellant; pyrotechnic mixture; energetic material

Properties & Characteristics

Rapid, exothermic reaction; produces hot gases (CO₂, H₂O, N₂); large volume expansion in microseconds; classified by sensitivity and brisance; deflagration (subsonic) vs. detonation (supersonic); sensitivity to heat, shock, friction varies by type; oxygen balance affects power

Uses & Applications

Mining and quarrying (ANFO, dynamite); military ordnance; demolition and construction; airbag initiators (sodium azide); pyrotechnics; perforating gun charges in oil wells; controlled demolition

Safety Information

Extremely dangerous — handle only under strict regulatory control with appropriate training and licensing. Primary explosives are shock- and friction-sensitive. All explosives require hot work permits and blast exclusion zones. Improvised explosives are illegal and highly dangerous. Follow national explosive regulations and BLEVE prevention protocols.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Explosive
Formula Rapid exothermic decomposition; ΔH << 0; rapid gas expansion
Index All "E" terms
Synonyms High explosive; detonating explosive; blasting agent; propellant; pyrotechnic mixture; energetic material

Frequently Asked Questions

An explosive is a reactive substance that can release a large amount of energy in a rapid, exothermic reaction, producing a sudden increase in pressure from rapid gas generation. Explosives are classified as primary (highly sensitive, initiate with heat/shock: lead azide, mercury fulminate), secondary (less sensitive, require a detonator: TNT, RDX), and tertiary (blasting agents: ANFO). The chemistry involves rapid oxidation, decomposition, or both.

More "E" Terms

Effective Collisions Effective Collisions E ≥ Ea (activation energy required) Effective Molality m_eff = i × m (van't Hoff factor) Effective Nuclear Charge Z_eff = Z − σ (Slater's rules) Efflorescence Hydrated salt losing water in air: M·nH₂O(s) → M·(n-x)H₂O(s) + xH₂O(g) Einsteinium Es Electrical Conductivity κ = 1/ρ; Λm = κ/c Electrochemical Cell Galvanic cell: ΔG = −nFE_cell; Electrolytic cell: ΔG = +nFE_applied Electrochemical Series Arranged by E° (standard reduction potential); SHE: E° = 0.00 V Electrochemistry E° cell = E° cathode − E° anode | ΔG° = −nFE° Electrochemistry Electrode
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AllChemicals.info — The Online Chemical Glossary | https://allchemicals.info/chemical/explosive

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