Three-Temperature Homogeneous Model of the Radiative Growth Phase of a Free Air Nuclear Fireball
Abstract
A model is developed which treats the growth of a fireball from an atmospheric nuclear detonation up to the point of hydrodynamic separation. The radius of the fireball and the partition of energy among streaming radiation, material temperature, and thermal radiation are predicted as a function of time. A simplified model is developed which applies when equilibrium between material temperature and thermal radiation temperature is reached. Numerical results are calculated for various yields and yield pulse shapes. These results are compared to those predicted by the model previously developed by G. C. Pomraning. The model developed here predicts reasonable numerical results and physically reasonable time dependences. It does not entail integrations over retarded time or the use of moments of radiation transport equations. It engenders an intuitive understanding of the fireball growth process and was developed for pedagogical use.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1982
- Accession Number
- ADA124793
Entities
People
- Kirk A. Mathews
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology