How Fireworks Work

Fireworks are, in the simplest terms, aeronautical explosives that are used for entertainment and celebratory purposes. Fireworks have been used for nearly a thousand years and are available in hundreds of different shapes, sizes, and colors. There are also various forms of fireworks that burn in different ways. Sparklers, for example, simply produce sparks when ignited and do not explode at all. Skyrockets, on the other hand, are much larger and are launched high into the sky, where they explode into various shapes and colors. Fireworks are used all around the world and are a guaranteed part of most major holidays such as New Years, Chinese New Years, Fourth of July, and Thanksgiving.

How Fireworks Work
Fireworks are usually made of simple paper or cardboard shells and are filled with gunpowder, pyrotechnic stars, confetti, dyes, phosphorous, and/or other materials. A stick or other launch mechanism is attached to the firework so that it can be ignited. As the firework reaches a terminal velocity or approaches the end of its predetermined time (measured by the length of the wick), it burns rapidly or explodes and produces a brilliant display of colors, light, sound, images, and confetti. While not all fireworks work in this manner, as some depend on motors or rocket engines, this is the most common type.

Applications
Fireworks are most commonly used for entertainment purposes during celebrations and memorable events. While this is generally the only reason fireworks are used, they were once used for military purposes as deadly weapons that were targeted at both ground troops and aerial vehicles. Fireworks have also been used as a means of communication in order to alert a tribe or village of approaching danger or other group concern. Fireworks are used throughout the entire year, despite bans on fireworks in certain areas due to low moisture levels and high incidences of fire.

Advantages
Fireworks have several advantages that make them a product that has been used for over 900 years. For example, fireworks generate a very loud sound as the exploding gunpowder breaks the sound barrier. Fireworks also generate large amounts of light as they are filled with many different materials that create different colors when ignited. Fireworks are also relatively safe and stimulate the economy by creating a demand for these explosive wonders.

Disadvantages
Although fireworks can be advantageous, they also have several disadvantages. For example, fireworks are generally very expensive and cannot usually be purchased individually. Fireworks are also very dangerous when used improperly and cause many injuries and deaths each year because drunk or incompetent users launch them near wooded areas or at other people or objects.