How Gunpowder Explodes

Fireworks light up the sky at New Year’s Eve celebrations around the world — but how do they actually work? And why do they come in so many colours?

In this From The Vault episode, we explore the science, history and controversy behind fireworks. From exploding bamboo in ancient China to world-record displays in places like Australia and the Middle East, we break down how fireworks go bang, where the biggest displays happen, and why events like Cracker Night spark debate here at home.

Perfect listening as the countdown to the New Year begins — and don’t forget to listen out for the S’Quiz at the end!

Links: Fireworks over Beijing:⁠⁠ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rZa9IeQO1D⁠⁠U

Record-breaking fireworks in the UAE -

2019⁠⁠: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f4kEbgLq3⁠⁠3Y

2021⁠⁠: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DNCy3uWDJ⁠⁠WM

2022⁠⁠: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8KMcLazxC⁠⁠7U

How fireworks work⁠⁠: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n1ixjhzwr⁠⁠_E