What is the role of sulfur in black powder?

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In summary, the reaction involves the increase of carbon's oxidation number from 0 to +4, the decrease of nitrogen's oxidation number from +5 to 0, and the decrease of sulfur's oxidation number from 0 to -2. Sulphur can act as a catalyst in the reaction, similar to transition metals, but unlike a catalyst, it is consumed in the reaction. Potassium nitrate is a naturally occurring compound and can also be produced by neutralizing nitric acid with potassium hydroxide. The beautiful colors of fireworks are due to the formation of colored metal oxides when metals are burnt, and the metal ions in a plasma state are responsible for the colors and sparks. Sulfur also plays a role in black
  • #1
iknownth
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1. A simple equation for the reaction:
2 KNO3 (aq) + C (s) + S (s) -> K2S (s) + N2 (g) + 3 CO2 (g)

The oxidation number of carbon increases from 0 to +4. The oxidation number of nitrogen decreases from +5 to 0. The oxidation number of sulphur decreases from 0 to -2.
Are these correct?

2. "Sulfur is used to speed up the reaction and acts like a catalyst in that it increases the rate of reaction. However, unlike a catalyst, it is used up in the reaction."
I understand that transition metals are often used as catalysts but why can sulphur act like a catalyst?

3. Potassium Nitrate is a naturally occurring compound. Can we find them easily? Do we often produce it by neutralizing nitric acid with potassium hydroxide?

4. When metals are burnt, coloured metal oxides are formed. Is this the only reason for the beautiful colours of fireworks? When metals are burnt under high temperature, will they turn to plasma state? If so, should the metal ions be responsible for the colours and sparks?
 
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  • #2
Sorry, it should be "4. When metals are burnt, metal oxides(some coloured) are formed".
 

1. How do fireworks create different colors?

Fireworks contain chemical compounds called metal salts, which are responsible for the different colors. When these compounds are heated, they emit specific wavelengths of light, which we perceive as different colors.

2. How do fireworks produce sound?

The loud sound of fireworks is created by the rapid expansion of gases within the firework. This is caused by the heat produced from the chemical reaction that takes place inside the firework.

3. What makes fireworks explode?

Fireworks contain a mixture of gunpowder and other chemical compounds. When ignited, the gunpowder creates a controlled explosion, which propels the firework into the air and creates the colorful display we see.

4. How are fireworks designed to create different patterns and shapes?

Fireworks are carefully designed and constructed to create various patterns and shapes. This is achieved by packing the gunpowder and chemical compounds into specific locations within the firework, which affects the direction and intensity of the explosion.

5. Are fireworks safe for the environment?

While fireworks can create air and noise pollution, they are generally considered safe for the environment. However, some chemical compounds used in fireworks, such as perchlorates, can be harmful to aquatic life if not properly disposed of after use. Many fireworks manufacturers are now developing more eco-friendly options.

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