Shattering windows with explosives

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In summary, the conversation discusses the potential effects of an explosion near a building, specifically on the windows of the building. The question is whether all the windows would break or just the ones facing the explosion, and if the glass from the windows on the opposite side would shatter into the building or away from the explosion. The speaker believes that all the windows would break and the glass would be pushed into the building due to the lower pressure inside. They also mention the possibility of the back window being blown out or forced into the low pressure. The conversation ends with a question about predicting the effects of shock waves on building design.
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Adam T
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Suppose an explosion went off near a building, big enough that it could potentially break the windows on all 4 sides but not destroy the frame of the building. Would all the windows break, or just the ones facing the explosion? Would glass from the window on the side of the building furthest from the explosion shatter into the building or away from the explosion?

My thought is that the explosion would shatter all the windows and push the glass from them into the building, even for the back window where it would be flying towards the explosion, because the windows are going to be pushed into the lower pressure inside the building. I'm not sure whether the the pressure in the building would increase first and blow out the back window, or if the lag of pressurizing the building would take long enough that the furthest window could be forced into the remaining low pressure. Now that I've written it, it seems like it's going to be a function of window size to building volume. Is there a non-destructive way to figure this out?
 
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1. How do explosives shatter windows?

Explosives shatter windows by creating a sudden, intense pressure wave that causes the glass to break. This pressure wave is created by the rapid release of energy from the explosives, which causes the air molecules to rapidly expand and compress, ultimately resulting in the shattering of the glass.

2. What type of explosives are commonly used to shatter windows?

The most commonly used explosives to shatter windows are high explosives, such as TNT or C-4. These types of explosives are specifically designed to release a large amount of energy in a short period of time, making them effective for shattering windows.

3. Can any type of window be shattered with explosives?

No, not every type of window can be shattered with explosives. The effectiveness of explosives in shattering windows depends on the type of glass and the strength of the window frame. For example, laminated or tempered glass may be more resistant to shattering from explosives.

4. Is it dangerous to use explosives to shatter windows?

Yes, using explosives to shatter windows can be very dangerous. Explosives are highly volatile and require careful handling and expertise to use safely. It is important to follow proper safety protocols and use the appropriate amount of explosives to avoid causing harm to yourself or others.

5. Are there any alternative methods to shatter windows without using explosives?

Yes, there are alternative methods to shatter windows without using explosives. Some options include using specialized tools, such as diamond-tipped drills, to create holes in the glass or using a sledgehammer to break the glass. However, these methods may not be as effective or efficient as using explosives.

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