Why chemical weapons considered more indiscriminate than conventional weapons?
Well, any large-scale ordinance is indiscriminate. The problem particularly with Chemical weapons is that, especially with those that are gas based, is that the actual range of the weapon is much larger than the blast radius. The Chemical residue can remain in the area for a long period of time, …
The Short Answer
Well, any large-scale ordinance is indiscriminate. The problem particularly with Chemical weapons is that, especially with those that are gas based, is that the actual range of the weapon is much larger than the blast radius. The Chemical residue can remain in the area for a long period of time, it can taint and damage water and food supplies, it can be carried on clothing, such that you could drop it on a house full of terrorists, but if there is an orphanage upwind, they are going to get some of it as well. With conventional ordinance, you can target and turn that building full of terrorists into rubble, and thanks to years of testing, we know more or less a good idea of the collateral damage. With a chemical warhead, its not one building – its anything and everything in that area. There is nothing pinpoint about a chemical weapon system – it can and will spread beyond the impact zone That is what makes it (imho) more 'indescriminate' than conventional weaponry.
Analysis
Key Concepts: Chemical, ordinance, weapon
This explanation focuses on chemical, ordinance, weapon and spans 173 words across 6 sentences. At 140% above the average Science explanation (72 words), this is one of the more thorough answers in this category, reflecting the complexity of the underlying question.
What This Answer Covers
The explanation opens with: “Well, any large-scale ordinance is indiscriminate.” It then elaborates by presenting a contrasting perspective, ultimately building toward a complete picture across 6 connected points.
How This Compares in Science
Ranked #10 of 500 Science questions by answer depth (top 3%). This places it in the comprehensive tier — the top quarter of most thoroughly answered questions. Questions at this depth typically involve multi-faceted topics requiring nuanced explanation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a simple explanation for why why chemical weapons considered more indiscriminate than conventional weapons?
Well, any large-scale ordinance is indiscriminate. The problem particularly with Chemical weapons is that, especially with those that are gas based, is that the actual range of the weapon is much larger than the blast radius. The Chemical residue…
How detailed is this explanation compared to similar Science questions?
This is one of the most thorough answer at 173 words, ranked #10 of 500 Science questions by depth. The key concepts covered are chemical, ordinance, weapon.
What approach does this answer take to explain why chemical weapons considered more indiscriminate than con?
The explanation uses contrasting perspectives across 173 words. It is categorized under Science and addresses the question through 1 analytical lens.