An aerial fireworks burst is produced by launching a fireworks shell high into the air, where an explosion occurs. This explosion propels brightly burning particles (known as “stars”) in many directions. Each streak of light in the firework photos on this page is a burning “star” flying through the air.
Anatomy of an Aerial Fireworks Shell: When a fireworks shell is launched into the air, the fuse is burning. The fuse is just the right length to ignite the explosive charge at the desired altitude. When the charge explodes it instantly ignites the gunpowder, increasing the size and force of the explosion. This explosion ignites the stars and throws them outwards in all directions. The stars burn as they travel through the air to produce the streaks of a brightly colored fireworks burst.
Examine the diagram of a fireworks shell below and read the caption to better understand what happens in the air when this explosion occurs.
