Definition

Noun: A type of explosive material that decomposes (burns) through a process called deflagration. This is a rapid combustion that propagates through the material at a speed less than the speed of sound (subsonic). The reaction produces gas and heat, creating a pushing or heaving force rather than a shattering shockwave. It is typically used for propelling, lifting, or creating a controlled burst of pressure.

Usage

Low explosive is a technical term used primarily in fields like chemistry, mining, ballistics, and pyrotechnics. It describes the class of explosive based on its reaction speed. - It is often contrasted with a high explosive. - It is commonly used as a propellant in ammunition or fireworks.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Black powder is a classic example of a low explosive.
  • The bullet's cartridge contains a low explosive propellant to force the projectile down the barrel.
  • Safety regulations for transporting low explosive materials differ from those for high explosives.

Advanced Usage

• "to function as a low explosive": To act with subsonic deflagration.
  • When confined, the mixture can function as a low explosive, producing a substantial gas volume.

Variants and Related Words

• Propellant (n): A substance used to propel something; many propellants are low explosives.
• Deflagration (n): The technical term for the subsonic combustion process characteristic of low explosives.
• High explosive (n): The contrasting term for an explosive that detonates (reacts supersonically).

Synonyms

• Propellant explosive: Highlights its common use for propulsion.
• Subsonic explosive: Describes its defining technical characteristic.

Related Phrases

• Low explosive train: A sequence of low explosive components (like in a fuse or ignition system) designed to transmit and amplify a burning reaction.
  • The firework's low explosive train ensures the timed ignition of each effect.

Noun

1. an explosive with a low rate of combustion