Bombs

A bomb is a device that releases energy rapidly through detonation or rapid combustion. Bombs are typically designed to maximize destructive effects such as a blast wave, fragmentation, heat, or a combination of these effects.

The concept of bombs has a long history. Early explosive devices used gunpowder and simple shells in various regions of Asia and the Middle East. In the 18th and 19th centuries, cast-iron shells and hand grenades became common in warfare. The 20th century saw the rise of aerial bombs and guided munitions, expanding reach and precision. The development of nuclear weapons in 1945 introduced a fundamentally different scale of destructive potential, influencing military strategy and international politics. Since then, advances have included improved fuzes, refined blast effects, and the emergence of smart or precision-guided bombs.

Types of bombs vary by design and purpose. Conventional bombs use a chemical explosive filling inside a protective casing. Fragmentation bombs spread high-velocity metal fragments to maximize damage to personnel and structures. Incendiary bombs employ flammable materials to start fires. Fuel-air bombs release a cloud of fuel that detonates, creating a wide-area blast and fire. Cluster munitions discharge multiple submunitions. Improvised explosive devices are homemade devices designed to explode, often using readily available materials.

Mechanisms are based on initiating a rapid chemical reaction or detonation, producing a shock wave, heat, and, depending on the design, shrapnel or other effects. Different configurations emphasize different outcomes, from large-area blast effects to targeted fragmentation.

The use of bombs is governed by international humanitarian law and national regulations aimed at reducing civilian harm and preventing indiscriminate or disproportionate attacks. Some types of weapons fall under broader prohibitions or arms-control regimes, reflecting ongoing safety and ethical concerns. Bombing has significantly shaped military strategy, urban safety, and post-conflict recovery.