The science behind how fireworks get their colors

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Drier and hotter weather is the theme for this 4th of July weekend!

With all this talk about the Fourth of July, you may be asking the question: How do fireworks get their colors? The simple answer is ... chemistry! As we know, fireworks come in many different shapes, sizes, and, of course, colors.

Here's the basic science: black powder, plus different elements and compounds, is loaded in a tube with a fuse. When the fuse ignites, it creates a reaction. The explosion of a firework produces ions that will emit a colored light based on the chemical inside.

As you're looking at the sky, watching your local firework display this weekend, creating lots of "oohs" and "ahhs, you'll see various colors such as greens (barium), blues (copper), yellows (sodium), and more.

Photo courtesy of usgs.gov

Each color is based on a single or combination of different elements. Gold sparks are produced by iron and small pieces of charcoal, and bright flashes and loud bangs typically come from aluminum powder.

Regardless of your plans, stay safe this holiday weekend by keeping a bucket of water or a water hose nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don't go off or in case of a fire. Only use them away from people, houses, and flammable material, and be mindful of your city/county laws on lighting fireworks.

While the Valley has received decent rainfall since Sunday, it's a good idea to follow all safety precautions to help keep you and your family safe.