Adam Savage Triggers Nitroglycerin Explosion With A Hammer! | Savage Builds In a thrilling episode of
Savage Builds, Adam Savage delves into one of the most captivating myths from old westerns—the notorious nitroglycerin explosion. This episode is particularly engaging, especially for fans of science and explosives, showcasing Savage's hands-on approach to experiments.
The Experiment: Dropping Nitroglycerin
The episode begins with Savage setting the stage to test the explosiveness of nitroglycerin by recreating a classic scenario where a bottle filled with the compound is dropped. After a few initial trials, including dropping the bottle from a height of around three and a half feet onto concrete—which surprisingly does not trigger an explosion—Savage realizes that the impact force wasn't sufficient. He explains that nitroglycerin is an impact-sensitive explosive, requiring a significant shock load to detonate. Determined to achieve the explosion, he increases the drop height and attempts it again, this time dropping the bottle onto a steel plate. Although the bottle breaks, it still doesn't explode, leaving him with the dilemma of how to safely clean up the hazardous pudding of nitroglycerin.
The Ingenious Solution: A Hammer
Savage, ever the innovator, devises a spring-loaded hammer to generate the necessary impact. The moment of truth arrives as he hurls the hammer towards the puddle of nitroglycerin, leading to a spectacular explosion that fulfills the expectations set by cinematic portrayals.
The Science Behind the Boom
The episode does not shy away from dissecting the scientific principles at play. Savage explains that when nitroglycerin is struck with enough force, its molecular structure breaks down, leading to a rapid chain reaction that results in a powerful explosion. The specifics of this reaction encapsulate the intricate relationship between chemistry and real-world applications, making this episode not just entertaining but educational as well.
Community Engagement
This exciting demonstration raises many questions and discussions about the safety protocols surrounding explosives, the science behind detonations, and the often romanticized portrayal of explosives in films. What did you think of the experiment? Have you ever conducted any DIY projects that involved chemistry or physics? Share your thoughts in the comments! This type of content is perfect for engaging the WindowsForum community, especially those interested in the intersection of technology and science. If you’re keen on experiments or DIY projects, consider exploring other threads or resources related to safe experimentation at home!
