How is an explosion defined?

An explosion is defined as a sudden conversion of potential energy into kinetic energy, which results in the rapid release of gas, heat, and pressure. This definition encapsulates the essence of an explosion, emphasizing the rapidity and violence of the energy transformation.

This sudden release can occur through various mechanisms, such as chemical reactions, physical changes, or even nuclear reactions. The key aspect is the instantaneous nature of the energy release which causes a shock wave or blast effect, often resulting in damage to the surroundings.

In contrast, the other options present scenarios that do not fully capture the explosive nature. Rapid combustion of flammable gases in open air may refer to deflagration or a fast fire but does not represent the violent and impactful nature of an explosion. A slow chemical reaction producing gas does not align with the idea of an explosion, as it is neither abrupt nor lacks the intense energy release characteristic of explosions. Finally, a controlled release of energy through electrical means describes a different process, which may involve controlled reactions or devices like detonators but lacks the uncontrolled nature typical of an explosion. Therefore, defining an explosion as the sudden conversion of potential energy into kinetic energy is accurate and comprehensive in its scope.