Playing with Fire
Title of the Lesson
Playing with Fire
Theme
The lesson explains the science of fireworks, their history, how they are made, the dangers associated with them, and the safety precautions that should be followed while using them.
Introduction
- Diwali is one of the most popular festivals in India.
- People enjoy bursting crackers because of their loud sounds and colourful displays.
- The lesson explains the physics and chemistry behind fireworks.
- Fireworks are not only a source of entertainment but also an example of scientific principles.
What is Pyrotechnics?
.The science of fireworks is called Pyrotechnics.
.The word comes from Greek:
- ‘Pyro’ means fire.
- ‘Technics’ means art.
. Pyrotechnics includes not only fireworks but many devices that use similar materials and principles.
. Even a household match is considered a pyrotechnic device because it produces heat, smoke, light, gas, and sound.
History of Fireworks
Origin of Black Powder
- Some historians believe that black powder was invented in India.
- Ancient Indian writings contain references to weapons similar to guns and projectiles.
- However, the Chinese are generally considered the pioneers of pyrotechnics.
- They developed black powder more than a thousand years ago.
Spread of Knowledge
- It took about two hundred years for the knowledge of black powder to spread to the West.
- In 1242, an English monk named Roger Bacon revealed the formula of black powder.
- He considered it dangerous and therefore wrote about it in code language.
Composition of Black Powder
The basic ingredients of black powder are:
- Potassium nitrate
- Charcoal
- Sulphur
Ratio
- Potassium nitrate : Charcoal : Sulphur
- 75 : 15 : 10 (by weight)
Importance
- This formula has remained unchanged for centuries.
- Experts believe it is nearly a perfect combination.
Development of Modern Fireworks
Improvements in Fireworks
. Modern chemistry has improved fireworks greatly.
. Metals such as:
- Aluminium
- Magnesium
- Titanium
produce bright light when they burn at high temperatures.
Colour Effects
- Colours are a more recent development in fireworks.
- Scientists identified the substances responsible for different colours after years of research.
Two Ways Colours are Produced
1. Luminescence
- Light is produced by special substances.
- It helps create different colours in fireworks.
2. Incandescence
. Light is produced when a substance becomes very hot and starts glowing.
. As temperature increases, colours change from:
- Infra-red
- Red
- Orange
- Yellow
- White
. By controlling temperature, desired colours can be produced.
Principle Behind Fireworks
. Fireworks work because fuel burns using oxygen.
. The fuel is packed tightly.
. Heat remains trapped inside.
. Burning takes place suddenly.
. This sudden release of energy produces a loud noise.
. The main raw materials needed are:
- Fuel
- Binders
- Oxidizers
- Other supporting materials
Manufacturing Process
- Ingredients are ground and mixed.
- The mixture is pushed through a machine.
- It comes out as long strips or rolls.
- These are rolled in cardboard or newspaper.
- A fuse is attached.
Dangers of Fireworks
. Fire is the greatest danger in pyrotechnics.
. Firework industries around the world have experienced many accidents.
. Even stable mixtures can catch fire because of:
- Excess heat
- Friction
- Sparks
- Impact
. Scientists are continuously trying to make fireworks safer.
Fireworks Industry in India
Sivakasi – The Fireworks Centre
- Earlier, fireworks were imported from China.
- During the Second World War, imports stopped.
- Safety match manufacturers of Sivakasi (Tamil Nadu) started producing fireworks.
Growth of Industry
- By 1992, India used fireworks worth about 60 crores.
- A large share of this production came from Sivakasi.
Problems in Manufacturing Units
- Fireworks are produced in many small units.
- Working conditions are often unsatisfactory.
- Testing facilities are limited.
- Safety measures are often inadequate.
- This is one reason why accidents occur frequently.
Firework Displays in Other Countries
- In many countries, individuals are not allowed to use fireworks freely.
- Only community displays organized by experts are permitted.
- Strict safety measures are followed during such events.
Safety Rules While Using Fireworks
Storage and Handling
. Store fireworks carefully.
. Handle them responsibly.
. Keep them away from:
- Fire
- Gas cylinders
- Heaters
Clothing
. Do not wear:
- Loose clothes
- Nylon clothes
while bursting crackers.
Safe Usage
- Never carry cracker powder loosely in pockets or hands.
- Never light fireworks inside a house.
- Never bend over a firework while lighting it.
- Never use fireworks to frighten others.
In Case of Burns
- Consult a doctor immediately.
- Do not apply oil or ointment without proper medical advice.
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