Firework

Fireworks are classified as low explosive devices and form a distinct variety of pyrotechnics, whose definition also generally includes devices for military and industrial use. Fireworks are used primarily for aesthetic and entertainment purposes. An event of firework display is called fireworks or fireworks event.

Fireworks (devices) take many forms to produce the four primary effects: noise, light, smoke, and floating materials (confetti for example). They may be designed to burn with colored flames and sparks. Displays are common throughout the world and are the focal point of many different cultural and religious celebrations.

Fireworks are generally classified as to where they perform, either as a ground or aerial firework. In the latter case they may provide their own propulsion (skyrocket) or be shot into the air by a mortar (aerial shell).

The most common feature of fireworks is a paper or pasteboard tube or casing filled with the combustible material, often pyrotechnic stars. A number of these tubes or cases are often combined so as to make, when kindled, a great variety of sparkling shapes, often variously coloured. The skyrocket is a common form of firework, however, the first skyrockets were used in war. The aerial shell is the backbone of today's commercial aerial display, a smaller version for consumer use is known as the festival ball in the United States.

Improper use of fireworks may be dangerous, both to the person operating them (risks of burns and wounds) and to bystanders; in addition, they may start a fire if landing on flammable material. For this reason, the use of fireworks is generally legally restricted. In the United States, fireworks are classified as either consumer or display fireworks based upon the amount of pyrotechnic compostion an item contains. Display fireworks are restricted by law for use by professionals. Consumer items are available to the public and are smaller versions containing limited amounts of material to reduce potential dangers.

See Fireworks article for the history of these devices and their usage.

See also

• Flame test

External links

• How Fireworks work
• The Pyrotechnics Guild International, an independent worldwide nonprofit organization of amateur and professional fireworks enthusiasts.
• Illegal Explosive Devices
• About.com The Chemistry of Firework Colors
• What is a M-80? And why can't you buy one?
• Pyrotechnic Glossary