What describes the difference between deflagration and detonation?

The distinction between deflagration and detonation is fundamentally rooted in their respective speeds and the nature of their combustion characteristics. Deflagration occurs at subsonic speeds, which means that the reaction front moves slower than the speed of sound in the given medium. This type of combustion is typically characterized by a gradual release of energy, producing a lower intensity of pressure waves.

In contrast, detonation occurs at supersonic speeds, meaning that the reaction front propagates faster than the speed of sound. This rapid reaction generates a shock wave, resulting in significantly higher pressures and temperatures. The transition between these two processes is crucial in understanding explosion hazards, as detonation often leads to more violent and destructive outcomes compared to deflagration.

Selecting the option that states deflagration is slower and detonation is faster encapsulates these critical differences, making it the correct choice for describing their contrasting behaviors in terms of speed and pressure wave production.