Fireworks are classified by size, chemical composition, gunpowder, and pyrotechnics. Different jurisdictions have different classifications for fireworks, but the United States has two: Consumer and Display. Read on to learn more. We have compiled a list of important safety considerations for fireworks. But, what should you know about fireworks before you go out to watch a show? This article is here to help you get started. It will answer all your burning questions!
Gunpowder
Gunpowder is a complex mixture of chemical ingredients that are used to ignite a variety of fireworks. Historically, this mixture has been made from charcoal, potassium nitrate, and sulphur. The first known natural “firecrackers” were bamboo stalks, which exploded when the hollow air pockets inside them became overheated. Eventually, Chinese alchemists accidentally mixed saltpeter with sulphur and charcoal and stumbled across the crude chemical formula for gunpowder. They were searching for an elixir of immortality, so they were likely to find a new way to produce explosive effects.
Explosions
An explosion in South Los Angeles on July 4 has brought the city under fire and sparked a debate about the role of the Los Angeles Police Department. Residents have accused the L.A.PD of disregarding the needs of the community and ignoring the safety of its residents. The incident led to 17 people being injured, including nine LAPD officers, one ATF officer, and six civilians. A tenth police officer was injured but not hospitalized.
Chemical reactions
The composition of fireworks contains three basic components: oxidizer, fuel, and binder. Oxidizers, such as nitrates and chlorates, are oxidizing agents. They work together to produce a high-energy gas that is released into the air during a fireworks explosion. The amount of oxidizer in a firework varies based on the size, density, and composition of the shell.
Safety issues
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), over nine thousand people were injured by fireworks in the United States last year, with three-quarters of those injuries occurring to children. Children ages ten to fourteen were the most likely to be injured. Fireworks are dangerous, causing burns, eye injuries, and even death. Fireworks can also cause damage to metals and even melt some. Always supervise young children while handling fireworks.
Chemicals used
Fireworks display different colors because of the chemical ingredients. The colors in fireworks are produced by a reaction between two different gases. The colors of fireworks are the result of different types of electrons in these gases regaining their ground state. Fireworks typically contain blues from copper compounds, yellow from sulfur, and green from barium. The chemicals used in fireworks come from pure chemistry. Some of the chemicals used in fireworks are salts of metals like potassium nitrate sulfur or charcoal.