Sounds that we hear are the result of air molecules being pushed against our eardrums. When an explosive is set off, a large number of gas molecules are produced that are pushed together with air molecules to create sound waves. The faster the air is pushed, the more pressure is created, since the air has less time to get out of the way. Just as when we bang our foot on the floor, the air is trapped between the floor and our feet, thereby resulting in an increase in pressure. The air molecules are crowded together and create a loud bang.
Why are explosives so loud?
