Which type of explosive is known for having a fast reaction time?

High explosives are characterized by their ability to undergo a rapid chemical reaction, resulting in a significant increase in pressure and temperature in a very short amount of time. This quick reaction time is what makes high explosives particularly effective for applications such as demolition and military uses, where immediate and powerful energy release is critical.

High explosives can detonate and create a shock wave that travels faster than the speed of sound, both in the explosive itself and in the surrounding air. This differentiates them from low explosives, which typically burn at a slower rate and do not produce the same kind of shock wave. The unique properties of high explosives make them suitable for tasks where speed and impact are essential, such as in anti-tank munitions and other specialized military ordnance.

In contrast, options such as low explosives, explosive mixtures, and propellant explosives involve slower reactions or different mechanisms of energy release, which do not align with the characteristics of fast reaction times. Low explosives, for instance, are generally relied upon for applications like safety fuses and fireworks, while propellant explosives are primarily used to propel projectiles rather than achieving immediate high-energy effects.