The spelling of "petrol bomb" follows the British English pronunciation, where "petrol" is pronounced as /ˈpɛtrəl/ and "bomb" is pronounced as /bɒm/. The term refers to an improvised incendiary device made by filling a bottle with petrol and a piece of cloth serving as a fuse for ignition. These bombs have been used as weapons in conflicts around the world. The term "petrol bomb" may also be spelled as "gasoline bomb" in American English, where "gasoline" is pronounced as /ˈɡæsəliːn/.
A petrol bomb, commonly known as a Molotov cocktail, is an improvised incendiary device typically made from a glass bottle filled with flammable liquid, such as petrol or gasoline, and a cloth soaked in combustible material, usually a rag. It is utilized as a low-cost weapon, mainly in riotous situations or during acts of civil unrest.
The term "petrol bomb" originates from the combination of the words "petrol" referring to the fuel used, and "bomb" suggesting its explosive potential upon ignition. The device is primarily used to cause damage to property or to ignite fires in a targeted area. When the cloth wick is ignited and the bottle is thrown or propelled, it shatters on impact, spreading the flammable liquid, thereby increasing the chances of a fire starting and intensifying rapidly. This makes it very dangerous not only due to its destructive capabilities but also due to potential harm to individuals or communities in its vicinity.
Petrol bombs have historically been a widespread form of weaponry in both domestic and international conflicts. While it is typically considered an unlawful weapon, due to its simplicity and the availability of materials, it poses a significant challenge for law enforcement authorities to prevent their creation or utilization. The use of petrol bombs poses severe risks, such as property damage, injury, or loss of life, making it a highly contentious and illegal method of protest and violence.
The term "petrol bomb" is derived from the combination of the words "petrol" and "bomb". "Petrol" is a British English term for a flammable liquid used as fuel in internal combustion engines, which is commonly known as "gas" in American English. The term "bomb" refers to an explosive device. Therefore, a "petrol bomb" is a type of improvised incendiary weapon that consists of a container filled with petrol, usually with a wick or fuse, which is ignited and thrown to cause damage by fire.