What is the role of sulfur in black powder?

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The discussion centers around a chemical reaction involving potassium nitrate, carbon, and sulfur, resulting in potassium sulfide, nitrogen gas, and carbon dioxide. The oxidation states of carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur are analyzed, confirming that carbon's oxidation number increases from 0 to +4, nitrogen decreases from +5 to 0, and sulfur decreases from 0 to -2. Sulfur is noted for its role in accelerating the reaction, functioning similarly to a catalyst, although it is consumed in the process. The conversation touches on the natural occurrence of potassium nitrate and its production through the neutralization of nitric acid with potassium hydroxide. Additionally, the formation of colored metal oxides during the combustion of metals is discussed, questioning whether this is the sole reason for the vibrant colors in fireworks. The potential for metals to reach a plasma state at high temperatures is also raised, along with the idea that metal ions contribute to the colors and sparks produced.
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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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Sorry, it should be "4. When metals are burnt, metal oxides(some coloured) are formed".
 
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