How Fireworks Make Their Noise

Fireworks are a staple of many celebrations around the world. They are used to mark special occasions, such as New Year’s Eve, Independence Day & 4th July, and Chinese New Year; as well as personal events. But why and how do they make such a loud noise?

The answer lies in the chemistry of fireworks. Fireworks are made up of a variety of chemicals, including gunpowder, metal salts, and oxidisers. When these chemicals are ignited, they react with each other and release a large amount of energy. This energy is released in the form of heat, light, and sound.

The sound of fireworks is created by the rapid expansion of gases. When the chemicals in a firework are ignited, they create a large amount of hot gas. This gas expands rapidly, creating a shock wave. The shock wave travels through the air at the speed of sound, creating a loud bang.

The type of sound that a firework makes depends on the type of chemicals that are used. Different chemicals create different sounds. For example, a firework that contains lead will create a sharp, cracking sound. A firework that contains copper will create a deep, booming sound.

The intensity of the sound from a firework also depends on the size of the firework. A larger firework will create a louder sound than a smaller firework.