So specifically I’m interested in gas vs diesel, but I would love to learn further about the specific property that determines this. It’s obvious that an explosion occurs when pressure builds up, and when gas ignites, it propels outwards and expands, but why isn’t diesel like that? Why isn’t every flammable gas explosive in nature?
In: Chemistry
Explosions only happen when a lot of energy is released quickly. This usually requires the fuel and oxidizer to be well-mixed prior to ignition. A bucket of gasoline will not explode, but gasoline vapor mixed with air in a canister will.
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