Explosions: Physics, Forces & Energy - Ask Critical_Bill13

In summary, explosions are caused by a rapid release of energy, often from a chemical reaction. This force can be significantly greater than other forces we encounter in daily life. Explosions can occur in outer space, but without air, they produce a burst of energy instead of a shock wave. Scientists study explosions using high-speed cameras and sensors, as well as computer simulations. Explosions can be controlled through careful manipulation of materials and energy, but they can also be unpredictable and dangerous.
  • #1
criticalbill
1
0
I was wondering if anyone could tell me the forces acting on debris from an explosion, and the types of energy involved??
id really appreciate emailed answers-my email address is critical_bill13@hotmail.com

Thanks very much for any replies! :smile:
 
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  • #2
just like wind

but very high speeds,
and on some range from the center the speed does not necessarily decrease with distance (in 1/r²) because on reaction and/or heating still going on

speeds are generated by expansion from chemical reaction and heating
 
  • #3


Hi Critical_Bill13,

Explosions involve a lot of physics, forces, and energy. When an explosion occurs, there are several forces acting on the debris. These forces include:

1. Blast pressure: This is the force exerted by the expanding gases of the explosion. It can cause objects to be pushed away from the explosion site.

2. Fragmentation: When an explosive device detonates, it releases shrapnel and debris at high speeds. This is due to the rapid expansion of the explosive material. The shrapnel and debris can cause damage to objects in its path.

3. Gravity: After an explosion, the debris will fall back to the ground due to the force of gravity. This force can cause additional damage to structures and objects.

The types of energy involved in an explosion are:

1. Chemical energy: Explosions involve the rapid release of chemical energy stored in the explosive material. This energy is converted into heat and pressure, causing the explosion.

2. Thermal energy: As the explosive material detonates, it produces a lot of heat. This thermal energy can cause burns and start fires.

3. Kinetic energy: The shrapnel and debris released during an explosion have a lot of kinetic energy due to their high speeds. This energy can cause damage to objects in its path.

I hope this helps answer your question. If you have any further inquiries, please feel free to email me at [email protected]

Take care and stay safe!

Best regards,
 

1. What causes explosions?

Explosions are caused by a rapid release of energy, often from a chemical reaction. This energy release creates a shock wave that causes the surrounding air to rapidly expand, resulting in a loud blast and destructive force.

2. How does the force of an explosion compare to other forces?

The force of an explosion can vary greatly depending on the amount and type of energy released. However, in general, explosions can produce forces that are significantly greater than other forces we encounter in our daily lives, such as gravity or friction.

3. Can explosions occur in outer space?

Yes, explosions can occur in outer space. However, since there is no air in space, the explosion would not produce a shock wave like it would on Earth. Instead, it would create a burst of energy that would radiate outwards from the source.

4. How do scientists study explosions?

Scientists study explosions by using high-speed cameras and sensors to capture and measure the different elements of an explosion, such as the shock wave, temperature, and pressure changes. They also use computer simulations and models to better understand the physics behind explosions.

5. Can explosions be controlled?

Yes, explosions can be controlled through careful manipulation of the materials and energy involved. For example, controlled explosions are used in mining and construction, where precise blasts are needed to remove specific amounts of rock or debris. However, explosions can also be unpredictable and dangerous, so caution must always be taken when handling explosive materials.

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