Is Silver Azide Explosive?

Yes, silver azide is explosive. It is a highly sensitive and unstable compound that can detonate spontaneously or with very little provocation, such as heat, friction, or impact.

Silver azide is formed by reacting silver nitrate with sodium azide in water. The resulting white powder is extremely sensitive to shock, heat, and friction. It decomposes rapidly upon heating, releasing nitrogen gas and leaving behind metallic silver.

Due to its explosive nature, silver azide is primarily used as a detonator in certain types of blasting caps and other pyrotechnic applications. However, it must be handled with great care and caution, as even slight mishandling can result in a dangerous explosion.

In summary, silver azide is an explosive compound that should only be handled by trained professionals using appropriate safety measures and procedures.