Interesting stuff related to the amazing world of chemistry:
pyrotechnics. awesome molecules/architechture/disney. medicine. animal studies. the current state of earth.
Chemistry plays a part in each of my links, but fireworks are without a doubt the coolest. Advances in chemical knowledge and the formation of more dependable chemicals allows for safer pyrotechnics (even though that's kind of an oxymoron). You see, fireworks are traditionally exploded with gunpowder. That's automatically unstable, but new research could allow the beloved tradition to carry on more safely. Some aerial fireworks are already launched using the power of compressed air and exploded by an electronic timer. However, this is not yet the preferred method because it's not most practical-not yet at least. It would be great if that could change with a little more research.
The shape of fireworks depends on the way they're packed, but the color depends on the chemicals packed within them. This is where we can make some real connections. Already in chemistry this year we've experimented with some of the chemicals used in fireworks. We did a lab that involved burning or heating different substances, including a strip of magnesium. Magnesium is an important element in pyrotechnics. You may remeber the blinding light produced in our experiment. This same light is used for white sparks or to brighten the fireworks in general. It's awesome how such a little in-class experiment has an actual use in our world.
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4 comments:
I would agree that fireworks are very cool. What is really cool if when they explode and spell someones name, or they are a face or a symbol. I would be interested in reading more about fireworks. In fact this talk about fireworks has inspired me, I think I'm going outside to light some up right now.
This was very interesting, especially thinking about how our little in-class experiment was related to fireworks. I never knew what made them colorful and now I do!! It's the chemicals packed inside that decides the color. Interesting...I would like to learn more (a.k.a. I am going to be a wierdie and look this up right now).
Considering I also wrote about fireworks last time, I'd say that your topic is fantastic. Everyday uses for chemistry are so interesting and it is very cool to make the connection between the classroom and he outside world.
Fireworks are amazing, and you seem to already know a lot about them.. Hm, did you see them at disney world? anyways, do you know if fireworks have any effect on the world? they're pretty fly anyways.. good post!
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