Hacker Newsnew | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submitlogin

24. Why nuclear weapons produce a double flash. I'd read that was a signature of a nuclear detonation (Clancy novels, sue me) but not why. Turns out it's because the shock wave is hot enough in the early stages of the explosion to become opaque, blocking light from escaping. As it expands, the shock wave cools and becomes transparent again, letting the light from the fireball inside escape.


Consider applying for YC's Winter 2026 batch! Applications are open till Nov 10

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: