LOW EXPLOSIVE Meaning and
Definition
-
A low explosive is a type of explosive material that exhibits deflagration rather than detonation when ignited. It refers to a class of explosives that burn at a relatively slow rate, producing a subsonic combustion wave. This characteristic makes low explosives less powerful and less sensitive to shock compared to high explosives.
Low explosives typically consist of a fuel and an oxidizer, which when combined can burn in an open environment without confinement. They require an external ignition source, such as a flame or spark, to initiate the reaction. Once ignited, they sustain a steady combustion front that travels through the material at a speed typically less than the speed of sound.
The burning process in low explosives produces large amounts of heat and gas, causing the material to rapidly decompose and release energy. This energy release is utilized in various applications such as pyrotechnics, blasting, fireworks, and propellants for firearms and rockets.
While low explosives do not undergo rapid decomposition like high explosives, they can still be dangerous if mishandled or misused. Their relatively slow combustion rate can still generate enough force to cause injuries or damage in case of accidents or improper handling.
Compared to high explosives, low explosives have a more predictable and controlled burn, making them suitable for specific purposes that do not require high energy release. They are often used in situations where controlled combustion is essential, allowing predictable performance and safer handling.
Common Misspellings for LOW EXPLOSIVE
- kow explosive
- pow explosive
- oow explosive
- liw explosive
- lkw explosive
- llw explosive
- lpw explosive
- l0w explosive
- l9w explosive
- loq explosive
- loa explosive
- los explosive
- loe explosive
- lo3 explosive
- lo2 explosive
- low wxplosive
- low sxplosive
- low dxplosive
- low rxplosive
- low 4xplosive
Etymology of LOW EXPLOSIVE
The term "low explosive" has its etymology rooted in the English language. Here's a breakdown of the word's components:
1. Low: The word "low" comes from the Old English word "lāh", which means "not high or tall". Over time, it has been used to describe things that are situated close to the ground or are not elevated.
2. Explosive: The word "explosive" originated from the Latin word "explōsus", which is the past participle of "explōdere", meaning "to drive out by clapping". It was initially used to describe something that bursts or shatters violently, with forceful energy release.
The combination of these two words, "low" and "explosive", creates the term "low explosive", which refers to a category of substances that have a relatively slow rate of combustion and produce a less powerful explosion compared to high explosives.
