Which components of a nuclear weapon pose the most probable hazards in case of an accident?

The most probable hazards in the event of a nuclear weapon accident are associated with high explosives and plutonium. High explosives are integral to the detonation process in a nuclear weapon and can pose significant risks if they are accidentally detonated. This could result in a large explosion, leading to destruction and potentially widespread damage regardless of whether a nuclear reaction occurs.

Plutonium, being a critical fissile material used in nuclear weapons, also presents serious hazards. In the event of an accident where plutonium is released, it can lead to radiological contamination, which poses serious health risks due to its radioactive properties.

While radiation and gamma rays are dangerous, they are typically effects of a nuclear explosion rather than direct components of the weapon. The combination of high explosives leading to an unintentional detonation and the potential for plutonium release makes these two components the most concerning hazards in a nuclear weapon accident scenario.