The difference between Burning and Exploding

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In summary, the difference between burning and exploding is primarily the rate of chemical reaction. Both involve exothermic oxidation, but burning occurs subsonically and uses oxygen from the air as the oxidant, while explosions are supersonic and contain their own oxidant. As a private pilot, the speaker was warned about the dangers of detonation, which is an uncontrolled explosion of fuel. This can be caused by high compression, as in the case of the speaker's high compression motorcycle engine. Oxygenated racing fuels can also affect the fuel/air mixture ratio and potentially cause detonation.
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jmatejka
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Ill make some statements, which I believe to be true, please chime in and correct or add your own information.

The difference is primarily the rate of chemical reaction?

We are typically talking about an exothermic oxidation for both burning and exploding?

As a private pilot I was warned about excessivly lean mixtures and high engine temp, which could lead to "detonation", an explosion of fuel rather than a controlled "burn".

My 2008 Hayabusa Motorcyle has 12.5 to 1 compression ratio, High Octane fuel is recommended because of it's resistance to detonation (Detonation caused by high compression in this instance).

Any input or other insight/examples appreciated. Thanks, John
 
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The difference between burning (deflagration) and explosion (detonation) has to do with the reaction rate, or rate of energy release, and whether the combustion reaction occurs subsonically or supersonically.
 
  • #3
Another difference between burning and exploding is that burning uses the oxygen in the air as the oxidant, while explosives contain their own oxidant.
 
  • #4
Bob S said:
Another difference between burning and exploding is that burning uses the oxygen in the air as the oxidant, while explosives contain their own oxidant.

Good Point, a racer friend of mine was talking about oxygenated racing fuels one day, and how it affected his fuel/air(oxygen) mixture ratio. Thanks
 

1. What exactly is the difference between burning and exploding?

Burning is a chemical reaction that occurs when a substance combines with oxygen and produces heat, light, and smoke. It is a relatively slow process and does not release a large amount of energy all at once. On the other hand, exploding is a rapid and violent release of energy, often accompanied by a loud sound and the formation of shock waves. It occurs when a substance undergoes a rapid chemical reaction or phase transition, releasing a large amount of energy in a short period of time.

2. Can anything that burns also explode?

No, not all substances that burn can explode. The ability to explode depends on the chemical properties of the substance and the conditions under which it is burned. Explosions typically occur with substances that are highly reactive and can undergo a rapid chemical reaction, such as explosives or certain gases.

3. Is there a difference in temperature between burning and exploding?

Yes, there is a significant difference in temperature between burning and exploding. Burning typically occurs at lower temperatures, around a few hundred degrees Celsius, while exploding can reach temperatures of thousands or even millions of degrees Celsius.

4. Can burning eventually lead to an explosion?

In some cases, yes, burning can lead to an explosion. This can happen when a substance is burned in a confined space or when the burning process produces a buildup of pressure. However, not all burning processes have the potential to lead to an explosion.

5. How can we differentiate between a burning and an exploding fire?

The main difference between a burning and an exploding fire is the speed and intensity of the reaction. A burning fire will produce a steady flame and release heat and light gradually, while an exploding fire will produce a sudden burst of energy and a loud noise. Additionally, an exploding fire may also produce debris and shock waves, which are not typically seen in a burning fire.

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