Detonation
A detonation is a rapid explosion that generates supersonic pressure waves (shock waves) in the surrounding medium. Detonations are produced by high explosives, nuclear weapons, etc. This is in contrast to deflagration, where the pressure waves are subsonic.
Detonations are hard to control and are used primarily for demolition and in warfare. An experimental form of jet propulsion, the pulse detonation engine, uses detonation to generate thrust.
Detonation in otto-cycle engines is caused usually by heat (or by pressure) resulting in a premature ignition (preignition, knocking). This force is extremely destructive to engines, and often results in holes blown through the top of pistons or engine blocks. This is different than diesel engines, which use detonation as their primary method of extracting energy from diesel.
See also Detonation section of Explosive, Detonator.
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