detonate

An explosion happens when something detonates.

When we talk about something detonating, we usually mean that it explodes. This can happen with things like bombs or fireworks, and it's often a big, loud noise. It can also refer to a chemical reaction where a substance breaks down rapidly into smaller parts, releasing energy in the process. For example, if you're handling certain chemicals in a lab, they might detonate if they come into contact with air.