What is the amount of energy released from an exploding firecracker?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around measuring the energy released from a firecracker explosion. One proposed method involves using a pendulum to measure the change in height after the explosion, applying concepts like gravitational potential energy and momentum conservation. However, concerns are raised about potential errors in this method due to energy losses. A more accurate approach suggested is to conduct the experiment in a calorimeter, which would yield more reliable results. Utilizing standard enthalpy tables is also recommended for approximating the energy release.
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Let's say the standard size firecracker if there is a standard.
 
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What about doing an experiment? Make a pendulum with a little cup on the end and set the firecracker in their and try to focus the explosion so it will rotate the pendulum ,
Then measure the change in height of the pendulum . mgh is the gravitational potential energy. Ballistic pendulum idea or do something with momentum conservation.
 
cragar said:
and try to focus the explosion

Nope. Too many losses, would introduce errors on the order of 50% or more.
 
Using standard enthalpy tables will get you quite close to the answer.

Perhaps the best experimental approach is to make the firecracker explode in a calorimeter. Some ideas are probably mentioned in this book: http://www.springerlink.com/content/x40850v6628r6270/
 

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