How dangerous is ammonium nitrate when combined with fuel?

Ammonium nitrate, when combined with fuel, forms a highly explosive mixture known as ANFO (ammonium nitrate fuel oil). This combination can be extremely hazardous because, under certain conditions, it can detonate and release a significant amount of energy. This reaction can cause substantial destruction and pose serious risks to safety.

The dangers associated with ammonium nitrate and fuel mixtures arise from their ability to undergo rapid combustion and explosion, particularly if subjected to heat, shock, or confinement. Additionally, ammonium nitrate can be sensitive to contaminants, impact, and other physical forces that can trigger an explosive reaction. These properties are critical for anyone working with or around these materials to understand, as they underline the necessity of strict safety protocols to prevent accidents.

In contrast, the other options wrongly imply safety or a lack of hazard. The assertion that it is entirely safe or non-hazardous fundamentally misrepresents the potential risks involved. Furthermore, the idea that it is less dangerous than other chemicals is misleading because, while all chemicals have their hazards, the combination of ammonium nitrate and fuel is recognized for its particularly high risk due to its explosive potential.