What is typical of tertiary explosives?

Tertiary explosives are characterized by their need for a secondary high explosive to initiate detonation. This is because they are generally more stable and require a significant amount of energy to transition from a non-detonative state to a detonation. Tertiary explosives are typically less sensitive to shock, heat, or friction, making them safer to handle compared to primary and secondary explosives.

In practical applications, tertiary explosives are often used in larger ordnance systems where safety is paramount, and controlled detonation is necessary. They serve as the main charge in some types of ammunition but rely on a more sensitive secondary explosive, which helps to ensure their detonation under controlled conditions.

The other statements do not accurately reflect the characteristics of tertiary explosives. While they may be stable and safe to handle, they do not detonate independently and require a detonator or another explosive source. Thus, recognizing the relationship between tertiary explosives and secondary explosives provides insight into their handling and functional applications in various contexts within explosive science and technology.