As an expert in the field of chemistry and its applications, I can provide a comprehensive response to your question regarding the use of glycerin in bombs. Glycerin, also known as glycerol or propane-1,2,3-triol, is a simple polyol compound that is widely used in various industries, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food. However, it is also true that glycerin has a historical significance in the production of certain types of explosives.

Glycerin in the Context of Explosives:
Glycerin's role in the production of explosives is primarily due to its chemical reactivity. When glycerin is combined with nitric and sulfuric acids in a process known as nitration, it can be converted into nitroglycerin. Nitroglycerin is a highly sensitive and powerful explosive, which was first used in the mid-19th century in the form of dynamite. The reaction is as follows:

\[ \text{Glycerol} + \text{Nitric Acid} + \text{Sulfuric Acid} \rightarrow \text{Nitroglycerin} \]

This process is highly controlled and dangerous, as nitroglycerin is not only explosive but also unstable. It was later replaced in many applications by more stable explosives such as TNT (trinitrotoluene), which does not require glycerin as a starting material.

Safety and Modern Applications:
It is important to note that the production and handling of nitroglycerin are strictly regulated due to its explosive nature. Today, the use of glycerin in explosives is limited and is not commonly associated with the everyday products that contain glycerin. Instead, glycerin is more commonly found in products that benefit from its humectant properties, such as moisturizers and antifreeze.

Misuse and Legal Implications:
The misuse of glycerin for the purpose of making explosives is not only dangerous but also illegal in most jurisdictions. The production of explosives without proper authorization is a serious offense and can lead to severe legal consequences. It is crucial to differentiate between the legitimate industrial uses of glycerin and the illicit activities that involve its conversion into explosives.

Conclusion:
In summary, while glycerin can be used in the production of explosives, such as nitroglycerin, this is not its primary or common application. The vast majority of glycerin is used in industries unrelated to explosives, and the process of converting glycerin into an explosive substance is both hazardous and subject to strict legal controls. It is essential to handle glycerin responsibly and to be aware of the potential risks and legal implications associated with its misuse.

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A more archaic use of glycerol is in anti-freeze. ... Glycerol also finds use as a precursor to explosives: it is the starting material in the manufacture of nitroglycerin, the explosive liquid commonly found in dynamite and some propellants. It's produced by reacting glycerol with sulfuric acid and nitric acid.May 25, 2014read more >>