Blasting Cap -

A , also known as a detonator , is a small, sensitive explosive device used to trigger larger, less-sensitive secondary explosives like dynamite or C4.

: The heat causes the primary charge to detonate first, creating a chemical reaction wave front that sets off the main charge, which then triggers the larger explosive nearby. Cultural and Historical Context Blasting Cap - song and lyrics by Acid King - Spotify blasting cap

: The device is triggered either by a flame from a safety fuse (non-electric) or by an electric current heating a thin "bridge wire". A , also known as a detonator ,

: A blasting cap typically contains two types of explosives: a small amount of highly sensitive primary explosive (like silver azide or lead azide) and a larger base charge of high explosive. : A blasting cap typically contains two types

Because secondary explosives are designed to be stable for transport, they require the concentrated shock or heat from a blasting cap to initiate a full detonation. How They Work