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The threat of using nuclear weapons is much more powerful than actually using them because just about everyone thinks they can cause more devastation than they
by phillipseamore 5y ago
The threat of using nuclear weapons is much more powerful than actually using them because just about everyone thinks they can cause more devastation than they actually can. There have already been 2058 nuclear explosions on earth since 1945, close to 600 megatons in total.
Theories like nuclear winter have been disproven. Radiation is down to reasonable levels 10 minutes after explosions and down to zero well within 48 hours. What really sets nuclear weapons apart from conventional bombs is the yield to weight factor, making it possible to send them around the world with little effort and in some/great quantities. Nuclear weapons that leave much radiation would not have caused a large explosion (you want to use all of the energy for the burst). The effect will mostly be localized to the burst area and dependent on it being a surface or air burst).
The fear and uncertainty about nuclear weapons is only beneficial to those that have them and especially those that threaten to use them.
- WoodenChair 5y agoCitations please.
- 2OEH8eoCRo0 5y agohttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_nuclear_weapons_tests https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_nuclear_weapons_tests > There have been 2,121 tests done since the first in July 1945, involving 2,476 nuclear devices. As of 1993, worldwide, 520 atmospheric nuclear explosions (including 8 underwater) have been conducted with a total yield of 545 megaton (Mt): 217 Mt from pure fission and 328 Mt from bombs using fusion, while the estimated number of underground nuclear tests conducted in the period from 1957 to 1992 is 1,352 explosions with a total yield of 90 Mt.[1] https://www.ready.gov/nuclear-explosion https://www.ready.gov/nuclear-explosion > Fallout is most dangerous in the first few hours after the detonation when it is giving off the highest levels of radiation. > Stay inside for 24 hours unless local authorities provide other instructions.
- dzhiurgis 5y agoThis. There are 3800 active warheads to cover 10 thousand cities. It's grotesque, but we don't have enough nukes!