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CLICCA QUI PER LA VERSIONE IN ITALIANO
Fireworks are a type of pyrotechnic display that consists of the controlled use of explosives and other pyrotechnic materials to produce bright lights, loud noises, and other special effects.
There are many different types of fireworks, including ground fireworks, aerial fireworks, and indoor fireworks. Ground fireworks are designed to be ignited on the ground and typically produce sparks or other effects. Aerial fireworks are launched into the air and can produce a variety of effects, including colorful displays, sparks, and loud noises. Indoor fireworks are smaller fireworks that are designed for use in enclosed spaces.
Fireworks are typically composed of a fuel, an oxidizer, and a chemical compound that produces the desired effects when it is ignited. They can be very dangerous if not used properly, and it is important to follow safety guidelines when handling or setting off fireworks.
ORIGIN
ORIGIN
The origins of fireworks are not entirely clear, but it is believed that they were first developed in ancient China around the 9th century. According to legend, fireworks were invented by a Chinese alchemist named Li Tian, who discovered that a mixture of sulfur, saltpeter, and charcoal could produce a loud noise and bright light when ignited.
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION
Fireworks are typically composed of a fuel, an oxidizer, and a chemical compound that produces the desired effects when it is ignited. The fuel used in fireworks is typically a form of black powder, which is a mixture of sulfur, charcoal, and potassium nitrate. The black powder provides the energy needed to propel the fireworks into the air and to create the desired effects.
The oxidizer used in fireworks is typically a chemical compound that provides oxygen for the combustion reaction. This can be a salt, such as potassium nitrate or sodium nitrate, or a metal, such as barium or copper. The oxidizer helps to ensure that the fuel is completely burned, which is necessary to produce the desired effects.
In addition, there are a variety of colorants that can be used in fireworks, including metal compounds and organic dyes. Different colorants produce different colors when they are burned, and combinations of colorants can be used to create a wide range of colors and effects.
The sound effects, on the other hand, are due to a particular mixture of gallic acid and pyric acid which during the combustion reaction give a very strong sound effect.
In addition to these main components, fireworks may also contain other ingredients, such as binders, stabilizers, and accelerants, which help to improve the performance and stability of the pyrotechnic device.
Nowadays, moreover, magnesium and aluminum powder are added to increase the luminous emission, while the addition of certain salts causes a different coloring, for example barium nitrate Ba(NO3)2 determines a red coloration, sodium salts a yellow coloration, potassium salts a violet coloration, calcium salts an orange coloration, while copper salts give a green-blue coloration. This reduces the heavy metals in the compound.
In modern powders, potassium nitrate has been replaced by a mixture of potassium chlorate and perchlorate KClO3 and KClO4 respectively. To obtain a bright and dazzling flame, antimony is used in the form of sulfur Sb2S3. For example, the reaction that takes place between potassium nitrate, carbon and sulfur is the following:
10 KNO3 + 8 C + 3 S → 2 K2CO3 + 3 K2SO4 + 6 CO2 + 5 N2
FLAME TEST
FLAME TEST
Returning to the issue of color, typically metals, when heated, produce colored flames. Each metal presents a different color. Chemists call these experiments as flame tests. Exposure to heat brings the electrons of the metal from the ground state to the excited state. After a fraction of time, the electrons return to their ground state and emit a luminous radiation, which we observe as a change in color.
AIR POLLUTION
AIR POLLUTION
Fireworks can contribute to air pollution, as the chemicals and particles released during the pyrotechnic display can enter the atmosphere and contribute to the overall level of pollutants. Some of the chemicals that may be released during a fireworks display include sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. These substances can contribute to the formation of smog and other air quality problems.
In addition to air pollution, fireworks can also contribute to water pollution. The chemicals used in fireworks can enter waterways and harm aquatic life, and the debris from fireworks displays can also end up in bodies of water.
To minimize the environmental impact of fireworks, it is important to use fireworks responsibly and to follow all local laws and regulations. This may include using fireworks only in designated areas, disposing of fireworks properly, and using eco-friendly alternatives when possible.
FIREWORKS AND ANIMALS
FIREWORKS AND ANIMALS
Fireworks can be disturbing and potentially dangerous for animals, as the loud noises and bright lights can cause stress and anxiety. This is particularly true for pets, who may become agitated or frightened by fireworks.
To help keep animals safe and comfortable during fireworks displays, it is important to take a few precautions:
Keep pets indoors: If possible, keep pets inside during fireworks displays, as this will help to minimize their exposure to the noise and light.
Create a safe space: If your pet tends to get anxious during fireworks, consider creating a safe and quiet space for them to retreat to. This could be a crate, a small room, or a basement.
Use white noise: Playing white noise or calming music may help to drown out the noise of the fireworks and help your pet to feel more comfortable.
Keep ID tags current: In case your pet becomes lost or escapes during a fireworks display, make sure that their ID tags are up to date and that they are wearing a collar with a current identification tag.
It is also important to remember that fireworks can be harmful to wildlife, as the chemicals and debris released during a display can be toxic to animals. To minimize the impact of fireworks on wildlife, it is important to use them responsibly and to follow all local laws and regulations.
According to WWF, thousands of animals killed every year. It is estimated that every year in Italy at least 5,000 animals die from barrels at the end of the year. Approximately 80% of these are wild animals, especially birds, including birds of prey, which when frightened lose their sense of direction and instinctively flee, risking hitting an obstacle due to poor visibility.
According to WWF, thousands of animals killed every year. It is estimated that every year in Italy at least 5,000 animals die from barrels at the end of the year. Approximately 80% of these are wild animals, especially birds, including birds of prey, which when frightened lose their sense of direction and instinctively flee, risking hitting an obstacle due to poor visibility.
NEW TECHNOLOGY
NEW TECHNOLOGY
There have been many advances in the technology and techniques used to produce fireworks over the years. Some of the newer types of fireworks that have been developed include:
Eco-friendly: These fireworks are designed to have a smaller environmental impact, as they use natural and biodegradable materials, such as bamboo and coconut shells, instead of traditional chemical compounds.
Low-noise: These fireworks are designed to produce minimal noise, making them a good choice for areas where noise pollution is a concern.
Color-changing: These fireworks are designed to change color as they burn, creating a more dynamic and visually impressive display.
LED: These fireworks use LED lights instead of traditional pyrotechnics to produce a colorful display. LED fireworks are safer and more environmentally friendly than traditional fireworks, as they do not produce any smoke or debris.
Smart: These fireworks can be programmed and controlled using a computer or smartphone, allowing for greater precision and customization of the pyrotechnic display.
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