Fireworks are a mixture of incandescent chemicals and propellants in a tube capable of directing the flame or balls of flame. Magnesium is a prime candidate for Fireworks as it burns extremely brightly. They work like an old-fashioned stick o' dynomite. The wick runs up through the entire middle of the firework (or cracker) and lights the chemicals on fire in order from the bottom up (or sometimes top to bottom, depending on the display) Careful chemistry and positioning is what makes fireworks what they are... it's amazing they cost so little when you think of the work that must go into them...
Next time you're watching fireworks, don't think "FIRE" or "COOL" think... "SCIENCE!"
/me takes off the bill nye mask.
Uhhh... where's the cheese?
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