How do landmines work?
Landmines are explosive devices that are typically hidden underground or on the surface of the ground. They are designed to be triggered by pressure or proximity, such as when a person or vehicle steps on or comes close to the mine. When triggered, the mine detonates, causing an explosion that can cause severe physical harm or death to those in the blast radius. Landmines are widely recognized as weapons that pose a significant risk to civilians, and their use is heavily regulated under international law.
Landmines work by using pressure-sensitive triggers that activate the explosive mechanism. The explosive material is typically composed of a mixture of chemicals, such as TNT or RDX, which are highly volatile and can cause significant damage upon detonation. The explosion releases a large amount of energy, producing a blast wave and shrapnel that can cause devastating injuries to anyone within the vicinity of the explosion. Additionally, some landmines are designed to be long-lasting and can remain active for years, posing a continuous threat to unsuspecting individuals.