Certified Fire Investigator Practice Exam

What is Fragmentation Secondary?

1. Parts thrown by an explosion that are not from the device

2. Ignited materials that cause a secondary fire

3. Explosive device remnants

4. Non-explosive components of a bomb

The correct answer is: Parts thrown by an explosion that are not from the device

Fragmentation Secondary refers to debris and shrapnel produced as a result of an explosion that originates from sources other than the explosive device itself. This concept is important in forensic investigations, especially in cases involving bombings or other explosive events, as it helps investigators understand the broader impact of explosions and the potential for injury or damage caused by materials that are displaced from the surrounding environment. In this context, the primary focus is on how various materials in the vicinity of the explosive can contribute to the overall devastation and potential for injury, which is a critical aspect of analyzing the scene and reconstructing the events leading up to and following an explosion. Recognizing that parts thrown from the explosion may not be remnants of the bomb itself, but rather other objects, can aid in determining the sources and dynamics of the blast. The other options relate to specific aspects of explosions or fire but do not capture the essence of fragmentation secondary, which emphasizes the external debris and shrapnel rather than just the explosive device or its direct effects.