The Chemistry of Fireworks

What happens to electrons in metal atoms when they are heated in fireworks?

• They are removed from the atom

• They are excited to higher energy levels

• They combine with protons

• They remain in their ground state

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-2

What causes the emission of light in fireworks?

• The combustion of gunpowder

• The release of photons as electrons return to their ground state

• The explosion of the firework shell

• The presence of metal salts

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-4

What is the primary component of fireworks that produces colors?

• Gunpowder

• Metal salts

• Charcoal

• Sulfur

What does the term 'salt' refer to in chemistry?

• Sodium chloride

• Any compound with metal and non-metal atoms ionically bonded

• Potassium nitrate

• Table salt

Who discovered gunpowder?

• Greek alchemists

• Chinese alchemists

• Roman scientists

• Indian chemists

What are the three components of modern black powder?

• Honey, sulfur, and charcoal

• Sulfur, potassium nitrate, and charcoal

• Potassium nitrate, honey, and sulfur

• Charcoal, sulfur, and saltpetre

What happens to electrons in metal atoms when they are heated in fireworks?

• They are removed from the atom

• They are excited to higher energy levels

• They combine with protons

• They remain in their ground state

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-2

What role does potassium nitrate play in black powder?

• Fuel

• Binder

• Oxidizing agent

• Reducing agent
  

What is the purpose of a binder in fireworks?

• To increase sensitivity to shock

• To hold components together and reduce sensitivity to shock

• To act as a primary fuel

• To produce oxygen

What causes the emission of different colors in fireworks?

• The type of binder used

• The size of the gunpowder pellets

• The energy gap between ground and excited states of metal atoms

• The amount of moisture in the mixture

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS4-3