FIREWORKS

ORIGIN OF FIREWORKS

The earliest documentation of the use of fireworks dates back to 7th century China, where they were invented. The fireworks were used for festivities and celebrations. The Chinese believed that fireworks could ward away evil spirits and bring about happiness and good fortune.

COMPOSITION OF FIRWORKS

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• Fuel - Power for firework most commonly charcoal
• Oxidizing agent - Creates oxygen necessary to burn
• Reducing agent
• Regulators - Regulate speed of reaction
• Coloring agents - Controls color
• Binders - Holds firework together

HOW DO FIREWORKS WORK?

Modern fireworks begin with the ignition of a delayed fuse. That fuse then burns to an explosive charge that pressurizes the tube and blows out the colored stars.

HOW ARE FIREWORKS COLORED

Colors in fireworks are produced from mixtures of chemicals and metal compounds
For example, the recipe for blue includes varying amounts of copper chloride compounds, while red comes from strontium and lithium salts.

SOME BONUS FACTS

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• Roughly 175lbs of fireworks were used in 2013
• China manufactures 90% off all fireworks
• Static electricity from synthetic clothing can set off firecrackers
• "Sound effects" in fireworks are elements fixed with the oxidizer

ANY QUESTIONS?