Definition

Noun: A violent release of energy caused by the very rapid and uncontrolled fission (splitting) or fusion (joining) of atomic nuclei. This is the specific explosion resulting from the detonation of an atomic (fission) bomb.

Usage

The term "atomic explosion" is used to describe the catastrophic event itself, focusing on the physical phenomenon and its immediate effects. It is often used in historical, scientific, and military contexts.

Examples

• The blinding flash and subsequent mushroom cloud are characteristic signs of an atomic explosion.
• Scientists studied the effects of radiation following the atomic explosion.
• The treaty aimed to ban all tests that resulted in an atomic explosion.

Advanced Usage

• "Ground zero" is the point on the Earth's surface directly below or above an atomic explosion.
• The term can be used metaphorically to describe a situation of sudden, immense, and disruptive force or change.
  • The CEO's resignation caused an atomic explosion in the stock market.

Variants and Related Words

• Nuclear explosion: A broader term that includes explosions from both atomic (fission) bombs and hydrogen (fusion) bombs.
• Atomic bomb (n): The weapon that causes an atomic explosion.
• Detonation (n): The technical act of causing an explosive device, like an atomic bomb, to explode.

Synonyms

• Nuclear blast
• Fission blast
• A-blast (informal)

Related Phrases

• Chain reaction: The self-sustaining series of nuclear fissions that causes the atomic explosion.
• Critical mass: The minimum amount of fissile material needed to maintain a nuclear chain reaction and cause an atomic explosion.

Noun

1. the explosion of an atomic bomb