An explosive reaction that moves through an explosive material at a velocity greater than the speed of sound in the material. A detonation is a chemical reaction given by an explosive substance in which a shock wave is formed.

High temperature and pressure gradients are generated in the wave front, so that chemical reaction is initiated instantaneously. Detonation velocities lie in the approximate range of 1400 to 9000 m/s = 5000 to 30,000 ft/s; slower explosive reactions, are known as deflagrations.

A chemical reaction in which the reaction front advances with a speed which exceeds the velocity of sound in the material. In this case, energy is transmitted from the reacted to the unreacted material by a shockwave. Burning rate usually in excess of 2,000 meters/second.