What occurs during a low order detonation?

During a low order detonation, the explosive does not react in a manner that consumes all of its material fully. Instead, only a portion of the explosive substance undergoes detonation, while the remaining material may remain unreacted. This phenomenon typically results in a lower energy release and less destruction compared to a high order detonation, where the entire mass of the explosive detonates.

In a low order detonation, the explosive train might not function as intended, leading to an incomplete explosion. The distinct characteristic of low order detonation is the failure to utilize all of the explosive material effectively, which aligns with the idea that not all explosives are consumed during the event. Understanding this concept is crucial for handling and transporting hazardous materials safely, as it impacts risk assessments and incident responses.