bomb

A bomb is an explosive device designed to release energy rapidly, producing damaging overpressure, heat, and often fragmentation. Bombs are intended to injure people or destroy targets within a specified area and may be triggered by impact, timer, remote control, or other mechanisms. They deliver their energy primarily through an explosive charge rather than propulsion.

The term derives from the French bombe and the Italian bomba, from Latin bombus meaning a buzzing or booming sound. Early usage referred to hollow shells filled with gunpowder and designed to explode on impact.

Most bombs have three components: a casing, an explosive filling, and a detonator or fuse. They are categorized by explosive type (including high and low explosives), by intended effect (blast, fragmentation, incendiary), and by delivery method (ground, aerial, or improvised). Improvised explosive devices (IEDs) use readily available materials and pose particular security challenges.

Bombs have a long history, evolving from medieval incendiary devices and gunpowder shells to modern conventional ordnance. The 20th century saw widespread use of aerial bombs, followed by precision-guided munitions and modern fragmentation weapons that shape military strategy and casualty patterns.

Explosion effects include rapid overpressure, extreme heat, and flying fragments that can cause severe injuries at considerable distance. Handling and disposal require trained specialists, with authorities typically coordinating evacuation, area security, and remote disarmament in suspected cases.

International and national laws regulate the manufacture, transfer, and use of explosive devices. Illicit production and deployment are illegal in most jurisdictions and are a focus of public safety and counterterrorism efforts.