What is an explosion that involves a chemical reaction surpassing the speed of sound?

An explosion characterized by a chemical reaction that exceeds the speed of sound is known as detonation. This process involves a rapid reaction where the shock wave travels faster than the speed of sound through the material, resulting in a high-pressure wave that propagates outward from the explosion point. The unique characteristic of detonation is the formation of a shock wave that causes immediate and significant damage due to the intense pressure and temperature produced.

In contrast, flashover refers to the rapid spread of fire in an enclosed space, while deflagration describes a slower combustion process that occurs at subsonic speeds, typically involving flames traveling through the air at less than the speed of sound. Combustion, in general, is a broader term that encompasses all forms of chemical reactions releasing heat and may occur at various speeds, but does not imply that the reaction surpasses the speed of sound. Thus, detonation stands apart due to the extreme velocity of the explosion and its resultant destructive capacity.