What is a mine in the context of explosive ordnance?

In the context of explosive ordnance, a mine is characterized as an explosive device specifically designed to damage vehicles or incapacitate personnel. This definition encompasses various types of mines, including anti-tank and anti-personnel variants, each engineered for specific tactical purposes.

Mines are typically buried or camouflaged and can be triggered either by the pressure of a vehicle or the presence of a soldier, or remotely via a detonator. Their design aims to inflict damage on enemy forces or equipment, making them a critical element of ground combat and defensive strategies.

The other options refer to unrelated concepts. A device designed to distract typically refers to diversionary tactics, which do not inherently involve explosives. A substance that absorbs moisture pertains to materials science rather than ordnance. A type of high explosive may highlight a category of explosives, but it lacks the specificity regarding the function and purpose ascribed to a mine.