High-speed footage of nitrogen triiodide detonating at the touch of a feather. Nitrogen triiodide (NI3) is an extremely sensitive contact explosive. Its sensitivity is due to the immense strain in the molecule, in which three large iodine atoms are bound to a small nitrogen. The slightest touch can cause the breakdown of the NI3 molecules, leading to the production of nitrogen gas and a cloud of iodine vapour. Filmed at 2000 frames per second (slowed down 80 times). This clip is also available with the chemical equation for the reaction overlaid. See clip K004 3416.