High-explosive refers to a type of explosive material that detonates rapidly, producing a powerful shockwave and a large volume of gas. These explosives are designed to create a significant amount of energy in a very short time, making them effective for military applications, demolition, and mining. Common examples of high-explosives include TNT, RDX, and PETN. Unlike low-explosives, which burn slowly and produce gas at a lower pressure, high-explosives can cause a violent explosion. They are often used in munitions, such as bombs and shells, where a quick and intense release of energy is necessary to achieve the desired effect.