4th of July Fireworks Chemistry - Smarter Every Day 14

Destin documents his yearly 4th of July tradition by photographing the fireworks show from the river using time-lapse and open shutter photography.

• Shot from the Bickering Nag positioned opposite the fireworks show on the river • Stay close to the bank to avoid motorized vehicles • Solo outing this year while family members had other commitments

Uses time-lapse and open shutter photography techniques to capture the fireworks displays.

Destin decided to research and learn about the chemistry behind fireworks colors to better understand what he was photographing.

Fireworks use chemical compounds created with elements rather than pure elements being burned.

• Red: strontium • Orange: calcium salts • Electric white: magnesium or aluminum • Blue: copper • Green: barium • Yellow: sodium compounds

• Gold: iron combined with potash or carbon • Purple: combination of strontium and copper creating red and blue together

Destin acknowledges he has historically been poor at chemistry but made an effort to research and learn the chemical basis of fireworks colors.

This annual fireworks photography project is one of Destin's favorite traditions that he looks forward to every year.

• Kids normally enjoy this tradition and find it one of their favorite activities • Had to go to bed early this year because the fireworks show started late • Wife was unable to attend this year

Destin hopes viewers enjoy the photographs and find the chemistry of fireworks colors interesting and visually cool.

Reminds viewers that they are getting smarter every day and encourages them to share the content with others.