As verbs the difference between explode and retort
is that
explode is to destroy with an explosion while
retort is to say something sharp or witty in answer to a remark or accusation or
retort can be to heat in a retort.
As a noun retort is
a sharp or witty reply, or one which turns an argument against its originator; a comeback or
retort can be (chemistry) a flask with a rounded base and a long neck that is bent down and tapered, used to heat a liquid for distillation.