Be Smart
Nature's Living Fireworks!
Seventy-five percent of ocean species create their own light. Bioluminescence stars in an enlightening biology video that takes a look at some cool species. From fireflies to deep sea creatures, the video explores the process,...
American Chemical Society
The Chemistry of Fireworks
Experiment with chemical compounds to produce the colors in fireworks! The lesson instructor demonstrates how adding high temperatures to specific compounds creates a colorful reaction—the same one people use to create fireworks. This is...
American Chemical Society
How Do Sparklers Work?
Fire up some interest in sparklers. Pupils learn how the combustion of metals with oxygen forms the basis of sparklers. The informative video in the ACS Reactions series explains how the ingredients mix together to form a combustible paste.
PBS
Pbs Learning Media: Fireworks! Making Color
What gives a fireworks display its brilliant blue, green, and red colors? Learn how pyrotechnicians give fireworks color in this video segment adapted from NOVA.
PBS
Pbs Learning Media: Fireworks! Lifting Charge
In this video segment adapted from NOVA, learn how pyrotechnicians use common compounds to blast fireworks into the sky and give them shape.
National Geographic
National Geographic: Fireworks | I Didn't Know That
What makes fireworks flash the way we like them, and what makes them burst in the sky? [3:11]
Science for Kids
Science Kids: Chemistry Videos: The Science of Fireworks
Ooo. Ahh. Who doesn't like a fireworks show? This video will detail the science behind fireworks from the explosives to the colors. [5:04]
Khan Academy
Khan Academy: What Else Can You Make With Particle Systems?
In this video [1:31] we'll show you how to create fireworks using the exact same methods we used to make water.
Mocomi & Anibrain Digital Technologies
Mocomi: How Fireworks Work
What are fireworks and how do they work? Check out this animated video. [1:11]
NPR: National Public Radio
Npr Videos: Skunk Bear: The Science of Firework Color
What gives fireworks their brilliant colors? It has something to do with table salt. [2:07]
Other
Seeker: How Fireworks Work
They're the biggest and loudest part of America's Independence Day celebrations: Fireworks! Anthony shows us how they work, where they came from, and what makes them go "BOOM!" [2:52]