How is a seated explosion typically characterized?

A seated explosion is generally characterized as one that is caused by high explosives. This particular type of explosion typically occurs when an explosive material is confined or contained, which allows for a rapid build-up of pressure that leads to an explosive release of energy. High explosives, such as dynamite or C4, possess the ability to produce a powerful shock wave and significant destructive forces when they detonate, making them the primary cause of seated explosions.

In contrast, the presence of a blast crater would be more associated with surface explosions or those involving less confined explosives. An explosion that spreads across a large area is often indicative of low explosives or other types of detonative events, while dispersed fuel gases would more likely result in a different explosion dynamic, typically associated with fire or vapor-related blasts rather than the high-energy characteristics of seated explosions. Thus, the defining attribute of seated explosions is their reliance on high explosives to produce their characteristic effects.