Fireworks Transparent Images
In its simplest form, fireworks consist of gunpowder wrapped in paper with a wick. Gunpowder consists of 75% potassium nitrate, 15% carbon or 10% sulfur. When sufficient heat is applied, the materials react with each other. Burning the wick provides the heat needed to light the
firework. Coal is used as fuel. Potassium nitrate is used as the oxidizer, while sulfur moderates the reaction. Carbon and oxygen create carbon dioxide and energy. They react to form potassium nitrate, sulfur and carbon, nitrogen and carbon dioxide gases and potassium sulfide. Pressure from the expanding nitrogen and carbon dioxide bursts the
fireworks' paper packaging.
History
The fireworks culture was discovered in China some 2000 years ago. The most common myth about the invention or accidental discovery of fireworks is the mixing of charcoal, sulfur, and saltpeter, which was abundant in kitchens in those days. This mixture exploded when compressed in a bamboo tube and burned.
Although the time difference between the invention of gunpowder in the kitchen and the discovery of the firecracker is skeptical, some sources say that the firework was discovered about 2000 years ago, while some sources claim that it was found in the 9th century during the Song dynasty.
Some sources suggest that the fireworks were invented by the Hindus.
