Serpent firework
The "snake firework" experiment involves a simple chemical reaction that produces a
long, ash-like column resembling a snake. The science behind this experiment is based
on the reaction between a sugar-based compound and a fuel source. Here's how it
works:
Materials: The main components typically used in snake fireworks are powdered sugar
(sucrose) and a powdered or granulated fuel source, such as powdered charcoal.
Baking soda is sometimes added to create gas and enhance the effect.
Combustion: When ignited, the powdered sugar and fuel source mixture undergoes
combustion, which is a chemical reaction that involves the rapid oxidation (burning) of
these compounds.
Heat and Gas Formation: During combustion, the sugar (sucrose) breaks down into
water vapor and carbon dioxide gas. The fuel source, such as charcoal, provides the
necessary carbon and heat to sustain the reaction.
Solid Residue Formation: As the reaction progresses, the water vapor and carbon
dioxide gas are expelled from the reaction as gasses. What remains is the solid carbon
residue in the form of a long, ash-like column. The column grows as the reaction
continues, creating the appearance of a "snake."
The carbon dioxide gas and water vapor push the sugar and baking soda mixture
upwards. At the same time, these gasses get trapped in the solid carbon, creating the
lightweight foam snake that you see emerging from the sand.
The key components of the reaction are sucrose (sugar) and charcoal. The sugar acts
as the oxidizable material, and the charcoal serves as the fuel. When these substances
are ignited, the combustion reaction produces heat and gas, and the byproduct is a
solid carbon residue, which is what forms the snake-like structure.
If you decide to perform this experiment, it's important to exercise caution and safety
measures. Ensure that you conduct it in a well-ventilated area, away from flammable
materials, and follow any safety guidelines and local regulations regarding fireworks or
pyrotechnic experiments.
Sucrose (sugar) + Charcoal (fuel) → Carbon Dioxide (gas) + Water Vapor (gas) +
Carbon Residue (solid)
Flower pots
The cross-section of a flower pot firework contains various components that are
responsible for creating the desired visual and auditory effects. These components are
carefully designed and arranged to produce the characteristic "flower pot" display. While
the specific construction may vary depending on the manufacturer and design, here are
some common components found in the cross-section of a flower pot firework:
Shell: The outer shell of the firework is typically made of cardboard or plastic. It is the
protective casing that holds all the other components. The shell may have an opening at
the top where the fuse is inserted.
Fuse: The fuse is a long cord that is lit to initiate the firework. It runs from the top of the
firework down into the interior.
Lift Charge: Near the base of the firework, there is a lift charge. This charge is
responsible for propelling the firework into the air when ignited.
Burst Charge: At the center of the firework, there is a burst charge. This charge is
designed to explode when the firework reaches its peak altitude. It creates a burst of hot
gas and pressure, rupturing the shell and dispersing the components inside.
Stars and Effects Chambers: Surrounding the burst charge, there are small
compartments or chambers, each containing pyrotechnic stars and other effect agents.
These chambers are arranged symmetrically and filled with the chemical compositions
that produce the desired visual effects, such as colored sparks, flames, or patterns. The
stars are ignited when the burst charge goes off.
Centripetal Force: The arrangement of the chambers and stars is designed to create a
spinning motion when the burst charge explodes. This spinning motion, generated by
the centripetal force, is what gives the firework its flower-like appearance.
Outer Core: Some flower pot fireworks may have an outer core that adds to the visual
effect. This core can contain additional pyrotechnic compositions, such as a colorchanging effect or other visual displays.
The specific construction and chemical compositions used in flower pot fireworks can
vary from one manufacturer to another, and they may be subject to regulations and
safety standards in different regions. The goal of these components is to create a
stunning and captivating visual display when the firework is ignited, with the spinning
motion and the careful timing of ignition contributing to the "flower pot" effect.