What's this filaments of a nuclear explosion?

In summary, the filaments seen in a nuclear explosion are shock waves formed by the intense heat and pressure of the explosion. They are essentially columns of glowing air and can reach temperatures over 100,000 degrees Fahrenheit. The colors of the filaments depend on the temperature and composition of the surrounding air. They only last for a fraction of a second and are not directly dangerous to humans, but the explosion itself can be highly destructive. It is important to stay at a safe distance from a nuclear explosion to avoid harm from radiation and debris.
  • #1
pixel01
688
1
The filaments at the red pointer. Is that the result of shockwave?

Thanks
 

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  • #2
i've often wondered the same thing regard that pic (or one very similar to it).

maybe it's blackbirds being toasted midflight.
 
  • #3
Offhand, I believe those are smoke streamers deliberately deployed to observe air movement.

[ EDIT: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mushroom_cloud#Physics" ]

"...the streaks of smoke ... are vertical smoke flares which are used to observe the shockwave..."
 
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1. What are the filaments seen in a nuclear explosion?

The filaments seen in a nuclear explosion are actually shock waves formed by the extreme heat and pressure of the explosion. These shock waves can reach temperatures of over 100,000 degrees Fahrenheit and travel at speeds faster than the speed of sound.

2. How are these filaments formed?

The intense heat and pressure of a nuclear explosion causes the air to expand rapidly, creating a shock wave. This shock wave compresses and heats up the air, causing it to emit light in the form of filaments. The filaments are essentially columns of glowing air.

3. Why do the filaments appear in different colors?

The colors of the filaments in a nuclear explosion are determined by the temperature and composition of the surrounding air. The hotter the air, the bluer the filaments will appear. The presence of different elements in the air can also cause the filaments to appear in different colors.

4. How long do these filaments last?

The filaments in a nuclear explosion are very short-lived and only last for a fraction of a second. As the shock wave expands and dissipates, the filaments quickly fade away.

5. Are these filaments dangerous?

The filaments seen in a nuclear explosion are not directly dangerous to humans. However, the explosion itself can be extremely destructive and cause harm to living beings. It is important to stay at a safe distance from a nuclear explosion to avoid exposure to harmful radiation and debris.

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