Explosive : Introduction , prepration , property , and applications of TNT and TNG
Introduction: Explosives are chemical compounds or mixtures that undergo rapid and violent decomposition or combustion, releasing a large amount of energy in a short period of time. Explosives are used in a variety of applications, including mining, construction, demolition, military operations, and fireworks displays. In this response, we will focus on two commonly used explosives, TNT (trinitrotoluene) and TNG (trinitroglycerin).
Preparation: TNT is prepared by the nitration of toluene, a colorless liquid hydrocarbon, with a mixture of concentrated nitric and sulfuric acids. The resulting yellow crystalline solid is relatively stable and has a high explosive power. TNG is prepared by the nitration of glycerol, a colorless and odorless liquid, with a mixture of concentrated nitric and sulfuric acids. The resulting oily liquid is extremely unstable and sensitive to shock, heat, and friction.
Properties: TNT is a yellow crystalline solid with a melting point of 80.3°C and a density of 1.65 g/cm³. It is relatively stable and has a low sensitivity to shock, heat, and friction. TNT has a high explosive power, with a detonation velocity of 6,940 m/s and a detonation pressure of 21 GPa. TNG is a colorless and odorless oily liquid with a boiling point of 83°C and a density of 1.60 g/cm³. It is extremely unstable and sensitive to shock, heat, and friction. TNG has a very high explosive power, with a detonation velocity of 7,100 m/s and a detonation pressure of 35 GPa.
Applications: TNT is widely used in military and industrial applications, including as a component of dynamite, a blasting agent used in mining, quarrying, and construction. TNT is also used in the production of munitions, such as bombs and shells, and as a propellant for rockets and missiles. TNG is primarily used as a component of dynamite and other explosives, but it is also used in medicine as a vasodilator to treat angina pectoris, a type of chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart.
It is important to note that TNT and TNG are highly explosive and potentially dangerous substances. They should only be handled and used by trained professionals in accordance with proper safety procedures and regulations.
