Explosions: gunpowder – the explosions in most fireworks still use traditional gunpowder, composed of potassium nitrate (saltpeter), sulfur, and charcoal.

Are fireworks made with gunpowder?

The source of most fireworks is a small tube called an aerial shell that contains explosive chemicals. ... An aerial shell is made of gunpowder, which is a well-known explosive, and small globs of explosive materials called stars (Fig. 1). The stars give fireworks their color when they explode.

What does gunpowder do in fireworks?

Potassium nitrate is the most important part of gunpowder. This is what propels the firework into the sky. A fuse is used to light the gunpowder, which ignites to send the firework skyward. Once the firework is in the air, more gunpowder inside it causes it to explode with a BANG!