Alberta Basic Security Training (ABST) Practice Exam 2024

The three primary effects of an explosion are

1. Blast, fragmentation, incendiary/thermal

2. Blast, earthquake, incendiary/thermal

3. Fragmentation, pulse, blast

4. None of the above

The correct answer is: Blast, fragmentation, incendiary/thermal

In the context of an explosion and its impacts, the three primary effects are indeed: Blast, Fragmentation, and Incendiary/Thermal. The "Blast" refers to the shock wave created by the explosion. This wave moves outward from the explosion's epicenter, rapidly compressing the air and creating a wave of high pressure that can cause significant damage to structures and people. "Fragmentation" refers to the debris that is launched by the explosion. Depending on the nature of the explosive and the surroundings, this might include shrapnel from the explosive device itself, or nearby objects that are shattered by the blast. "Thermal/Incendiary" effects refer to the heat and fire caused by the explosion. The initial detonation causes a rapid, intense increase in temperature, which can cause burns and start fires. So, in an explosion, these three effects - the blast, the fragmentation, and the thermal/incendiary effects - represent the main dangers. This is why in the context of security training, it's important to understand these effects as they can all potentially lead to significant harm or damage during a security incident involving an explosion.