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What makes gunpowder very explosive?
What makes gunpowder seem to “explode” is because it burns very rapidly. It seems to explode because when it is compressed in a barrel, it is packed in a very tiny space which means great pressure. So when it burns very fast, in a very confined space, the gases are built up and “explodes”.
Why is gunpowder not an effective explosive?
Gunpowder is classified as a low explosive because of its relatively slow decomposition rate and consequently low brisance. Ignition of gunpowder packed behind a projectile generates enough pressure to force the shot from the muzzle at high speed, but usually not enough force to rupture the gun barrel.
What’s the difference between gunpowder and black powder?
Black powder is the traditional powder used in old firearms while gunpowder is the powder that is being used in modern firearms. Gunpowder is more refined and purer while black powder is coarser and less refined. 3. Gunpowder is smokeless while black powder produces a lot of smoke.
Does gunpowder explode if shot?
Yes. Bullets don’t need air to fire. When the gunpowder in the cartridge ignites and explodes, it creates a lot of hot gas which expels the bullet out of the gun. There is a possible complication, though, when firing a gun in space.
What elements make up gunpowder?
Black powder consists of a fuel (charcoal), an oxidizer (saltpeter or niter), and a stabilizer (sulfur) to allow for a constant reaction. The reaction would be slow, like a wood fire, if not for the oxidizing agent. Carbon in a fire must draw oxygen from the air, but the saltpeter in gunpowder provides the oxygen.
How is the gunpowder different before and after being set on fire?
The nitrogen likes to stay alone and becomes (N2), the oxygen further reacts with the carbon (C) and forms CO2. The potassium from the KNO3 reacts with the sulfur (S) to K2S. This means that the gunpowder is very different after being set on fire.
What is meant by black powder?
Definition of black powder : an explosive mixture of potassium nitrate or sodium nitrate, charcoal, and sulfur used especially in fireworks and as a propellant in antique firearms — compare gunpowder.
Does gunpowder expire?
Does gunpowder have an expiration date? – Quora. No. Modern smokeless powder is stable indefinitely when stored at ambient temperatures. Smokeless powder made before WWI would become unstable and several ships were blown up when the powder in their magazines caught fire and exploded.