THE IMPORTANCE OF THE GRAVITATIONAL FIELD ON BLAST WAVE PROPAGATION,
Abstract
The theoretical solutions of blast wave propagation presently available have assumed that the gravitational effects are negligible. However, with the advent of weapons having yields in the megaton range, the mass of air above the plane of detonation which is lifted against gravity becomes significant. The purpose of this report is to demonstrate the importance of this effect. The energy required to lift the air particles against gravity was computed assuming a spherical blast wave in a homogeneous atmosphere. The results indicate that for weapons in the megaton range a very substantial percentage of the total hydrodynamic yield would be required for work to move the air against gravity above the plane of detonation. Conversely, the blast energy below the plane of detonation is enhanced by the gravitational field. The over-all effects on the shock parameters are not predicated in this study. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 12, 1955
- Accession Number
- AD0368005
Entities
People
- Gunning Butler Jr.
Organizations
- Air Force Special Weapons Center