The Explosion Yield Calculator estimates the energy output of an explosion by converting it into an equivalent amount of TNT. This measurement, expressed in tons, kilotons, or megatons of TNT, is widely used in physics, engineering, defense studies, and environmental impact assessments. The calculator provides an efficient way to understand how powerful an explosive event is by translating raw energy figures or observable effects (like blast radius) into a commonly understood benchmark.
Researchers, safety engineers, and military analysts use this tool to assess the potential damage of chemical or nuclear detonations. It also aids emergency planners in scenario modeling and post-blast evaluations by helping to estimate blast magnitude based on empirical data or energy readings.
formula of Explosion Yield Calculator
Where:
- Explosion Yield is the equivalent explosive energy in tons of TNT
- Energy Released is the total energy from the explosion, measured in joules
- 4.184 × 10⁹ joules is the energy release by 1 ton of TNT
Alternate Conversions:
To calculate in kilotons or megatons:
- Yield (kt) = Energy / 4.184 × 10¹²
- Yield (Mt) = Energy / 4.184 × 10¹⁵
Estimating from Blast Radius:
When direct energy measurement is unavailable, blast radius can be use:
W = (R / K)³
Where:
- W is the yield in kilotons
- R is the blast radius in meters
- K is a scaling constant related to overpressure, commonly around 100 for 1 psi
This method is useful for estimating unknown yields from real-world observations when dealing with either historical detonations or forensic analysis of blast sites.
Quick Reference Table
| Energy Released (Joules) | Yield (tons TNT) | Yield (kt) | Yield (Mt) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.184 × 10⁹ | 1 | 0.001 | 0.000001 |
| 4.184 × 10¹² | 1000 | 1 | 0.001 |
| 4.184 × 10¹⁵ | 1,000,000 | 1000 | 1 |
| 8.368 × 10¹⁵ | 2,000,000 | 2000 | 2 |
| Blast Radius (m) | Overpressure Constant (K) | Estimated Yield (kt) |
|---|---|---|
| 1000 | 100 | 1000 |
| 500 | 100 | 125 |
| 200 | 100 | 8 |
This reference helps interpret values quickly and can be used to approximate explosion magnitude even without direct calculation.
Example of Explosion Yield Calculator
Let’s calculate the TNT equivalent yield for an explosion that released 2.09 × 10¹² joules of energy.
Step 1: Apply the main formula
Explosion Yield = 2.09 × 10¹² / 4.184 × 10⁹
Step 2: Perform the division
Explosion Yield ≈ 500 tons of TNT
Now convert to kilotons:
500 tons / 1000 = 0.5 kilotons
This means the explosion was half the strength of a 1 kiloton TNT detonation, helping stakeholders assess blast intensity and safety implications.
Most Common FAQs
This is a physics and engineering calculator used to measure explosive energy output. It’s essential in scientific, defense, and hazard assessment fields.
It provides an estimate. The actual value depends on environmental factors, explosion type, and ground conditions. It is best used when energy data is unavailable.
No, although commonly used in nuclear terminology, kiloton and megaton ratings apply to any explosion with a large energy release, including industrial and chemical blasts.