how powerful was the north korean nuke that they tested? megatons?

Answer 1

Estimates range from .5 Mton to 15 Mton.

The seismic readings would indicate the lower end of that
range, possibly to 1.2 Mton.

Of course, there's no way to say conclusively that it was a
Nuclear explosion. That much tonnage of conventional
explosives would create a very similar, if not same, seismic
result.

Answer 2

It registered 4.5 on the richter scale, considering the ground composition the estimates arer under a megaton. It was very weak, indicating it was conventional explosives or the nuke malfunctioned.

It was so deep in the ground there were no telltale signs of a nuke test, such as radiation or EMPs.

Many are not convinced it was a nuke, but it can't be discounted either. The Mythbusters would have to say that right now it is INCONCLUSIVE.

Answer 3

Depends on who you ask! The Russians say it was hugh, yet the French say that it fizzled. Given the relatively low seismographic readings that have been reported, I would be inclined to believe the French.

It wouldn't surprise me if the Russians weren't in cahoots with Kim Jong Il, from the beginning. They seem to put themselves in very compromising situations where they will say one thing, yet the facts will dispute what they say.

The Russians indicated that the explosion was equal to 5 to 15 thousand pounds of TNT.

Answer 4

How about .001 megatons.

Answer 5

It was less than 1 kiloton... Which has experts questioning whether or not it was really nuclear, or just a conventional weapon, detonated to try and get the US to agree to send Kim Jung Il more foreign aid!!

Answer 6

I think the russians said 10,000 - 15,000 MT.

Answer 7

ONE MEGATON....