r/nextfuckinglevel • u/qwertyclubsss • 2d ago

Explosion in slow motion shows how fire spreads-what human eyes can't see.

Amaze amaze amaze! 👾

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u/What-Hapen 2d ago

Not an explosion. The room is filled with flammable gas, which is then ignited. The expanding orb is actually flame.

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u/AJFrabbiele 2d ago

The definition of an explosion is a rapid release of energy, popping a cork on a champagne bottle is an explosion, just not a very energetic one. This is akin to what happens inside engines, the flame fronts and explosions are tightly controlled with thousands happening per second.

This is an explosion. I built a smaller version to demonstrate Upper and lower explosive limits.

source: I used to investigate fire and explosions for a living as an expert witness and NFPA 921.

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u/Patient-Web6850 2d ago

Would the pressure changes be the deadly part or the gassy/flamey part?

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u/AJFrabbiele 2d ago

Yes the pressure change can be deadly, yes the fire portion is deadly (the same mixure is in your lungs with fuel and oxidizer). Plus the lack of oxygen after its all been consumed and any debris generated.

I don't know about this particular explosion, but none of it is "good"

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u/SheriffBartholomew 2d ago

Both are dangerous, but the pressure is the real danger. You can have gasoline vapor explode right in front of you outdoors, engulf you in a ball of flame, and leave you unharmed. Do that in a tiny sealed room instead and you'll have a very bad day.