How Do You Calculate the Blast Radius of a Nuclear Explosion?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the blast radius of a nuclear explosion, specifically for a yield of 550 kilotons (kT). Key areas of interest include the total destruction radius, the heavy damage radius from shockwaves, and the firestorm radius due to thermal radiation. Users are encouraged to refer to established equations and resources, such as the Wikipedia page on the effects of nuclear explosions, to derive these values accurately.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of nuclear explosion yield and its implications
  • Familiarity with blast radius calculations
  • Knowledge of thermal radiation effects
  • Basic skills in using mapping tools like Google Maps
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the equations for calculating blast radius based on yield for nuclear explosions
  • Explore the thermal radiation effects and their impact on firestorm areas
  • Learn about the different damage zones associated with nuclear detonations
  • Investigate tools for visualizing blast effects on mapping platforms
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for researchers, emergency planners, and developers creating visualizations of nuclear explosion impacts, as well as anyone interested in the physics of nuclear detonations.

SiegfriedC
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My first post here, so Hello Everyone!

I searched the forum for info but unfortunately I couldn't find it.

I am in the middle of making nuclear explosion map (google maps based). Can anyone support me with equations for calculating approximate blast radius based on yield?

I would like to display area (circle) of total destruction, area of heavy damage caused by shockwave and area of heavy fires (firestorm) caused by thermal radiation. Any other suggestions are welcome. If there are no generic equations, could you please calculate values for 550kT?

Regards
 
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