an explosive atmosphere

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an explosive atmosphere" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing safety, hazards, or situations that are volatile or prone to conflict. Example: "The factory must adhere to strict safety protocols to prevent any incidents in an explosive atmosphere."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Because ignition of an explosive atmosphere is expected within explosion proof or flameproof enclosures, there is a need to consider the potential for an internal explosive atmosphere ignition in combination with a lithium or lithium-ion battery thermal runaway process, and the resulting effects on the enclosure.

Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries

As a useful method of preventing dust explosions, nitrogen (N2), an incombustible gas, has been applied to an explosive atmosphere.

Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries

An air device creates no spark hazard in an explosive atmosphere and can be used under wet conditions without electric-shock hazard.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The board has already said that the cause was an explosion in the center fuel tank, and has conducted extensive laboratory work demonstrating that an explosive atmosphere often develops in such tanks.

The New York Times

The Boeing 747, which crashed off Long Island in 1996, had an explosive atmosphere in its center fuel tank that engineers did not believe existed, combined with wiring problems that few had any inkling of.

The New York Times

This overpressure prevents the penetration of flammable gas or combustible dust from outside into the enclosure and hence avoids the combination of an explosive atmosphere and an ignition source.

Practical Electrical Equipment and Installations in Hazardous Areas

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

In addition, the design of such apparatus prevents the interior parts and those on the outer surface of the enclosure from reaching temperatures that exceed the ignition temperature of any explosive atmosphere.

Practical Electrical Equipment and Installations in Hazardous Areas

That includes typical variables appropriate for workplace explosion like occurrence of the explosive atmosphere, the presence of effective ignition sources, activity of the explosion prevention and mitigation independent protection layers as well as the severity of consequences.

Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries

As in coal mine spontaneous combustion management, explosion hazard was managed by continuous nitrogen injection aimed at maintaining an explosive inert atmosphere in ahighly inaccessible TBM pressurized chamber area.

Procedia Earth and Planetary Science

It is a legal requirement under Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmosphere Regulations 2002 (DSEAR) for any employer whose business involves flammable materials in any form, and it results in the division of the workplace into one or more zones.

Newnes Electrical Power Engineer's Handbook

Rwandan President [Paul] Kagame's bitter criticisms of Nkurunziza have added to the explosive atmosphere.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing safety protocols, explicitly state how to mitigate the risks associated with "an explosive atmosphere". Be specific about ventilation, equipment, and procedures.

Common error

Avoid using "an explosive atmosphere" solely to describe emotionally charged situations. While it can be used metaphorically, ensure the context clearly conveys the presence of a high-risk, potentially dangerous environment, rather than just heightened emotions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an explosive atmosphere" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "explosive" modifies the noun "atmosphere". It describes a specific type of environment characterized by the presence of flammable substances and a risk of explosion. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is a correct and usable English phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an explosive atmosphere" correctly describes an environment with a high risk of explosion due to the presence of flammable materials and an ignition source. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and usable. Its usage spans various fields, including science, news, and general discussions, with a neutral to formal register. When employing this phrase, clarify the specific risks and preventive measures. While the phrase can be utilized metaphorically to describe tense or volatile scenarios, it's essential to ensure the context conveys a dangerous and high-risk environment, rather than merely heightened emotions. Be sure to consider synonyms such as "a volatile environment" or "a hazardous condition" depending on the specifics of the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a flammable atmosphere

Directly relates to fire risk, specifically mentioning that it is a flammable atmosphere.

a volatile environment

Focuses on the instability and potential for sudden change within the surroundings.

a hazardous condition

Highlights the potential for harm or danger.

a combustible mixture

Emphasizes the elements that, when combined, create a risk of explosion or rapid escalation.

a precarious situation

Suggests a state of instability and risk of collapse or negative consequences.

a charged environment

Highlights the high level of tension and emotional energy in a setting.

a critical juncture

Implies a turning point with significant potential for either positive or negative outcomes.

a tinderbox situation

Uses a metaphor to describe a situation that is easily ignited or provoked.

an incendiary environment

Emphasizes the provocation of conflict.

a brewing storm

Suggests an impending crisis or conflict.

FAQs

How can I use "an explosive atmosphere" in a sentence?

You can use "an explosive atmosphere" to describe environments where flammable substances are present, such as "The factory implemented new safety measures to prevent ignition in "an explosive atmosphere"". It can also be used metaphorically to describe tense or volatile situations.

What is a more formal alternative to "an explosive atmosphere"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "a volatile environment" or "a hazardous condition". These alternatives /s/volatile+environment and /s/hazardous+condition convey a similar meaning with a more professional register.

Is it correct to use "an explosive atmosphere" to describe a political situation?

Yes, it can be used metaphorically. For example, "The political climate created "an explosive atmosphere" in the region". However, ensure the context is clear and appropriate. If you are writing formally, consider "a tense political climate" instead.

What are the key elements that contribute to "an explosive atmosphere" in a workplace?

The key elements typically include the presence of flammable substances (gases, vapors, dust), an ignition source (spark, heat), and oxygen. Proper risk assessment and safety protocols are essential to mitigate the risks within "an explosive atmosphere".