Chemistry & Environmental Dictionary

Decomposition - DOT (USDOT)

Decomposition

A reaction where a single compound breaks down into simpler compounds.

Deflagration

The extremely rapid burning of a material. This is much much faster than normal combustion, but slower than detonation.

Density

The ratio of mass to unit volume expressed in grams/cm3 for solids and liquids and grams/liter in gases (density=mass/volume).

Detonation

The sudden and violent release of mechanical, chemical or nuclear energy from a confined space which creates a shock wave that travels at supersonic speeds. Often used interchangeably with explosion.

Diatomic

Elements that are present in the gaseous state as molecules composed of two atoms. For example: O2, N2, Cl2 and H2 are diatomic.

DOT (USDOT)

United States Department of Transportation

Dictionary Navigation

Citing this page

If you need to cite this page, you can copy this text: