Introduction
A nuclear bomb is an explosive device that derives its destructive force from nuclear reactions, either fission or a combination of fission and fusion. Both reactions release vast quantities of energy from relatively small amounts of matter. The first test of a fission (“atomic”) bomb released the same amount of energy as approximately 20,000 tons of TNT. The first thermonuclear (“hydrogen”) bomb test released the same amount of energy as approximately 10,000,000 tons of TNT.
What Happens to the House?
A nuclear bomb is an explosion with the force of a nuclear weapon. The effects of a nuclear bomb on a house depend on the size of the bomb, the type of bomb, the altitude at which it is detonated, and other factors.
If a nuclear bomb is small and detonated at ground level, the blast wave will destroy most houses in its path. The heat from the explosion will also set fire to any flammable material nearby. If a nuclear bomb is large and exploded in the air, the blast wave can cause widespread damage to buildings and other structures. The heat from the explosion can also start fires miles away from the point of detonation.
In either case, it is important to remember that concrete and brick buildings offer more protection than wood frame houses. If you are inside a house when a nuclear bomb explodes, get under a table or desk if possible, and cover yourself with anything that will protect you from flying debris. Try to stay away from windows and doors, which can be blown in by the blast wave.
What Happens to the People Inside?
Nuclear bombs are incredibly destructive and can kill or injure large numbers of people. If you are caught in the open, there is very little that you can do to protect yourself. The first step is to find some kind of shelter, preferably a building. Once you are inside, the next step is to get as far away from the windows as possible.
If you are inside a house, the best thing to do is to get into the basement. If there is no basement, try to get into an interior room on the lowest level of the house. Once you are in a shelter, close all the doors and windows and stay inside until you are told it is safe to come out.
People who are outside or in poorly constructed buildings when a nuclear bomb explodes can be seriously injured or killed by the blast wave. The blast wave is a shock wave of air that travels at supersonic speeds. It can cause extensive damage to buildings and people.
How Can You Protect Yourself?
There is really no protection from a nuclear bomb except to be far away from the explosion. If you are close to the explosion, the best thing to do is get into a building or underground as quickly as possible. If you are caught in the open, lie flat on the ground and cover your head with your hands.
Conclusion
Nuclear bombs are extremely powerful and destructive. If you are near the blast site of a nuclear explosion, the only way to survive is to take shelter immediately in a sturdy building. If you are caught outside, find a ditch or depression and lay flat, covering your head with your hands. The detonation of a nuclear bomb can cause severe injuries, including burns, radiation poisoning, and crush injuries. Seek medical help immediately if you are injured.