The impact of an explosion on Earth depends on various factors, including the size and nature of the explosion, the distance from Earth, and the specific effects we consider. It is challenging to provide a precise distance since it can vary depending on these factors. However, I can provide some general information.
Explosions can have different effects on Earth, including thermal radiation, shockwaves, and electromagnetic pulses (EMPs). The impact of these effects diminishes with distance due to the inverse square law, which states that the intensity of a phenomenon decreases with the square of the distance from the source.
Thermal radiation: The thermal energy emitted by an explosion can cause damage through heat and fire. The distance at which thermal radiation can have a significant impact depends on the size of the explosion and the atmosphere's conditions. For large-scale nuclear explosions, the thermal radiation can cause severe burns and start fires within several kilometers from the detonation point.
Shockwaves: Shockwaves travel through the air and can cause destruction and injury. The range of impact depends on the energy released and the type of explosion. For example, powerful nuclear explosions can produce shockwaves that can cause damage tens of kilometers away from the detonation point.
Electromagnetic Pulses (EMPs): High-energy explosions, particularly nuclear detonations, can generate EMPs that can disrupt or damage electronic systems. The range of EMP effects can be significant, potentially covering hundreds or thousands of kilometers, depending on the explosion's characteristics.
It's important to note that the effects of an explosion can be influenced by factors like atmospheric conditions, topography, and the specific characteristics of the explosion itself. Therefore, it is difficult to provide an exact distance at which an explosion can affect Earth. The impact of an explosion is typically more significant the closer it occurs to populated areas or sensitive infrastructure.