What is defined as the rapid explosion of an explosive material, resulting in a shock wave?

The rapid explosion of an explosive material that results in a shock wave is specifically defined as detonation. This phenomenon occurs when an explosive material undergoes a reaction that produces a supersonic shock wave, leading to a rapid release of energy. Detonation is characterized by the extremely fast propagation of the reaction front through the explosive material, which can create a powerful shock wave capable of causing significant damage.

In contrast, combustion refers to a slower oxidation reaction that typically takes place at subsonic speeds and does not produce shock waves. Deflagration is a term that describes a slower type of combustion where the reaction front travels at subsonic speeds, also lacking the violent shock wave associated with detonation. Ignition simply refers to the initiation of the combustion process without specifying the nature or speed of the reaction. Thus, the key defining characteristic of detonation is its ability to create a shock wave through rapid explosive reactions, making it the correct answer.