Explosives
In the last chapter we talked about combustion in open air. Explosives are used to generate combustion-like reactions in a confined space. The resulting pressure breaks the container and causes an explosion. Forensic scientists play a role in explosives investigation through chemical analysis by providing information on what compounds were used. We will study the characteristics of explosions and explosive using simple examples and working our way up to more complex situations and scenarios.
Learning Objectives
14.1 Describe the similarities and differences between open air flame combustion and explosive reactions
14.2 Recognize the process that leads to an explosion or detonation and what type of physical evidence is produced.
14.3 Appreciate the types of physical evidence associated with explosives pre- and post-blast
14.4 Understand the basic principles behind IEDs such as pipe bombs
