HOW DO FIREWORKS WORK?

Fireworks are more than just bursts of colour in the night sky - they’re a fascinating combination of chemistry, physics, and engineering.

At their core, fireworks have four main parts: a container (usually a paper shell), a fuse, an explosive charge, and “stars.” These stars are small pellets that contain metal compounds and colour-producing chemicals. When a firework is ignited, the fuse lights a lifting charge that propels the shell into the air. Once it reaches the right altitude, a timed fuse ignites the bursting charge inside the shell.

That’s where the real magic begins - chemistry takes over. The intense heat ignites the stars, which contain different metal salts. Each salt emits a specific colour when burned. For example, strontium gives off red, barium creates green, and copper produces blue. The pattern you see in the sky is determined by how the stars are arranged inside the shell.

Physics plays a big role, too. The explosion creates expanding gases that push the stars outward, forming the beautiful shapes we associate with fireworks. Ring, peony, palm - each design comes from a carefully planned structure.

Fireworks are also carefully timed. Engineers design fuses to ignite different charges at different moments, allowing for multi-stage displays and choreographed shows.

While the visual spectacle is thrilling, it's important to remember that fireworks are controlled explosives. Safety and precision are crucial in their design and execution.

So next time you watch fireworks light up the sky, know that behind every spark is a science-packed performance combining art, chemistry, and physics - made to dazzle, impress, and inspire curiosity.