Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Standardized Awareness Practice Test

What is an Improvised Nuclear Device designed to do?

1. Create a controlled fusion reaction

2. Produce a nuclear explosion

3. Emit harmful radiation without explosion

4. Act as an advanced conventional weapon

The correct answer is: Produce a nuclear explosion

An Improvised Nuclear Device (IND) is designed to produce a nuclear explosion. Such a device typically consists of fissile material that, when brought to a critical mass, will undergo a rapid chain reaction leading to a massive release of energy in the form of an explosion. The intent behind creating an IND is to harness the destructive power of nuclear reactions, similar to that of an atomic bomb, though often made from readily available materials rather than through the sophisticated processes of state-sponsored nuclear programs. The other choices reflect different concepts that do not apply to the specific function of an IND. For instance, controlled fusion reactions are associated with clean energy technologies and require specific conditions not achievable with an improvised device. Emitting harmful radiation without an explosion describes a radiological dispersal device rather than a nuclear weapon, which fundamentally relies on an explosive reaction. Lastly, while conventional weapons can cause significant damage, they do not involve nuclear reactions or the immense energy release characteristic of nuclear weapons. Hence, they do not align with the primary purpose of an Improvised Nuclear Device.