OSH Security Practice Test

The three primary effects of an explosion are

1. Blast, fragmentation, incendiary/thermal

2. Blast, earthquake, incendiary/thermal

3. Fragmentation, pulse, blast

4. None of the above

The correct answer is: Blast, fragmentation, incendiary/thermal

The three primary effects of an explosion are indeed blast, fragmentation, and incendiary/thermal effects. The blast effect is the pressure wave created by the rapid expansion of gases during the explosion. This wave can cause significant damage to structures and injuries to individuals nearby due to the force exerted by the sudden change in pressure. Fragmentation refers to the shrapnel and debris that are propelled outward from the explosion site. These fragments can be deadly, as they travel at high speeds and can strike anything in their vicinity, leading to injuries or death. Incinendiary or thermal effects are associated with the heat generated by the explosion. This intense heat can cause burns, ignite fires, and lead to secondary explosions or further incidents. In contrast, the options that mention "earthquake" or "pulse" do not accurately represent the primary effects associated with an explosion. An earthquake is a geological phenomenon, while a pulse typically refers to a transient event rather than a categorization of explosion effects. Thus, the correct choice reflects the actual consequences that can arise from an explosive event.