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Originally, gunpowder (black powder) was a mix of charcoal, sulfur, and saltpetre (sodium nitrate). Modern day smokeless gunpowder can have several different formulations, but most are based on a mix of nitrocelluose and nitroglycerin.

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Q: What is the composition of gunpowder?
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Can gunpowder be made without sulfur?

No, sulfur is a crucial component in gunpowder. Gunpowder is typically composed of sulfur, charcoal, and potassium nitrate (saltpeter). Removing sulfur from the mixture would change the composition and likely impact the effectiveness of the gunpowder.


What is made from sulfur charcoal and potassium nitrate?

Gunpowder is made from sulfur, charcoal, and potassium nitrate. It is a mixture used for explosive materials and in fireworks.


How do you make gunpowder more volitile?

Adding more sulfur to gunpowder can make it more volatile. However, increasing volatility can also make it more dangerous to handle, so it is important to exercise caution when altering the composition of gunpowder.


What is the speed of gunpowder's explosion?

The speed of gunpowder's explosion can vary, but typically ranges from 1,900 to 7,000 meters per second (4,200 to 15,600 miles per hour) depending on the specific type and composition of the gunpowder.


What gases does burning gunpowder give off?

Burning gunpowder gives off gases such as carbon dioxide, water vapor, and nitrogen gas. Additionally, small amounts of sulfur dioxide and carbon monoxide may also be produced depending on the exact composition of the gunpowder.


What is the flash point of gunpowder explosive?

The flash point of gunpowder explosive can vary based on its composition, but it is typically around 170-230°C (338-446°F). This is the temperature at which it can release enough vapor to ignite in the presence of a spark or flame.


How has gunpowder changed over time?

Gunpowder has evolved over time through advancements in its composition and production methods, leading to increased power and efficiency. From its origins in ancient China, gunpowder has been refined to yield more controlled and powerful explosions, enabling its use in a wide range of weaponry and military applications. Modern advancements continue to enhance gunpowder's performance while also focusing on safety and environmental concerns.


How does gunpowder testing work?

Gunpowder testing typically involves analyzing residues left behind by a fired gun in a controlled environment. This includes collecting samples from the weapon, ammunition, and the shooting scene to determine the composition and characteristics of the gunpowder. Testing methods may include chemical analysis, spectroscopy, and microscopy to identify the unique chemical markers of gunpowder and trace them back to a specific source or manufacturer.


Do people still use gunpowder in fireworks?

Yes, gunpowder is still used in fireworks to create the explosive effects. However, modern fireworks also use a variety of other chemicals and compounds to produce different colors, sparks, and effects.


Does gunpowder produce CO2?

When gunpowder is ignited, it releases combustion gases like carbon dioxide (CO2) along with other gases such as carbon monoxide (CO). The exact composition of the gases produced can vary depending on the type of gunpowder and the conditions of combustion.


What is an ingredient of gunpowder?

One ingredient of gunpowder is sulfur.


What is the collective noun of gunpowder?

There is no specific collective noun for gunpowder, in which case, you use an appropriate noun suited to the situation a pound of gunpowder, a flask of gunpowder, a box of gunpowder, etc.