What is the chemical composition of the explosive used in detonating cord?

• A. Pentaerythritol tetranitrate
• B. Trinitrotoluene
• C. Ammonium nitrate
• D. Calcium carbide

Answer: (A)

The chemical composition of the explosive used in detonating cord is pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN). PETN is a high explosive known for its sensitivity and is often used in military applications and commercial explosives due to its effectiveness in detonation. It is favored for its stability and reliable performance under various conditions, making it suitable for use in detonating cord, which relies on a consistent and controllable explosion to trigger other explosives.

In comparison to the other substances listed, while trinitrotoluene (TNT) is a well-known explosive, it is primarily used in military munitions and not typically associated with detonating cord. Ammonium nitrate is commonly used as a component of bulk explosives and is often mixed with fuel oil to create ANFO (Ammonium Nitrate Fuel Oil), but it does not serve as the main explosive in detonating cord. Calcium carbide is not an explosive but is used in the production of acetylene gas—instead, it acts more as a chemical reagent than an explosive agent. Thus, PETN is the correct answer as it specifically refers to the composition characteristic of detonating cord.