how far can radiation spread from a nuclear bomb

The distance that radiation can spread from a nuclear bomb depends on several factors, including:

1. Yield: The size of the bomb, measured in kilotons (kt) or megatons (Mt). A larger bomb will produce more radiation and spread it farther.
2. Type of bomb: Different types of nuclear bombs, such as atomic bombs (fission) or hydrogen bombs (fusion), produce different types and amounts of radiation.
3. Altitude of detonation: A bomb detonated at a higher altitude will spread radiation over a wider area, while a bomb detonated at ground level will produce more localized radiation.
4. Weather conditions: Wind, rain, and other weather conditions can affect the spread of radiation.
5. Terrain: Hills, valleys, and other terrain features can influence the spread of radiation.

Here are some general estimates of the distance that radiation can spread from a nuclear bomb:

Immediate Radiation (within 1 hour)

• Gamma radiation: Up to 10-20 kilometers (6-12 miles) from the blast site, depending on the yield and altitude of detonation.
• Neutron radiation: Up to 1-2 kilometers (0.6-1.2 miles) from the blast site, depending on the yield and altitude of detonation.

Short-term Radiation (within 1-2 weeks)

• Fallout: Up to 100-200 kilometers (62-124 miles) from the blast site, depending on the yield, altitude of detonation, and weather conditions.
• Radioactive plume: Up to 500-1,000 kilometers (310-621 miles) from the blast site, depending on the yield, altitude of detonation, and weather conditions.

Long-term Radiation (months to years)

• Fallout: Can spread globally, depending on the yield, altitude of detonation, and weather conditions.
• Radioactive contamination: Can persist for years or even decades, depending on the type and amount of radioactive isotopes released.

Some examples of radiation spread from historical nuclear tests:

• Trinity test (1945): Radiation was detected up to 160 kilometers (100 miles) away from the blast site.
• Hiroshima and Nagasaki (1945): Radiation was detected up to 30 kilometers (19 miles) away from the blast sites.
• Chernobyl nuclear disaster (1986): Radioactive fallout was detected up to 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) away from the plant.

Keep in mind that these estimates are rough and can vary greatly depending on the specific circumstances of the nuclear event.