Basic Corrections Officer: Certification Study Guide

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Study for the Basic Corrections Officer Certification. Prepare with detailed quizzes and insightful explanations to bolster your knowledge. Ace the exam with confidence!

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Which is a type of primary high explosive?

TNT
RDX
Lead Styphnate
PETN

The correct answer is: Lead Styphnate

Lead Styphnate is classified as a primary high explosive. Primary explosives are sensitive to heat, friction, or shock and are primarily used to initiate secondary explosives, which are less sensitive and require a detonator to explode. Lead Styphnate’s sensitivity makes it useful in applications such as detonators and primers, where a reliable initiation is crucial. In contrast, TNT (trinitrotoluene), RDX (Research Department Explosive), and PETN (Pentaerythritol tetranitrate) are considered secondary explosives. These substances are less sensitive and require a detonator or another means of initiation for detonation, making them unsuitable for direct initiation roles like that of primary explosives. Understanding the distinctions between primary and secondary explosives is essential in the context of safe handling and application in law enforcement and military operations.