What happens when you burn saltpeter?

What happens when you burn saltpeter?

Once heated, the potassium nitrate will produce enough oxygen for the reducing agent to react. The flame should burn a purple or lilac color due to the presence of potassium. The reaction may be explosive, so it is necessary to be cautious and aware of the reaction as it occurs.

Is potassium nitrate flammable?

FIRE HAZARDS * Potassium Nitrate is noncombustible, however, it is a STRONG OXIDIZER and will accelerate burning when involved in a fire. * Use water only. DO NOT USE DRY CHEMICAL, CO2 or HALOGENATED extinguishing agents. * POISONOUS GASES ARE PRODUCED IN FIRE, including Nitrogen Oxides.

Is saltpeter poisonous?

Saltpeter and other nitrates have a long history of medical use, but it is toxic in high doses and can produce symptoms ranging from a mild headache and upset stomach to kidney damage and dangerously altered pressure.

Why do Indians have a saltpetre?

Hint: Potassium nitrate is called the Indian saltpeter because it is one of the most important nitrogen containing compounds that is used as a crude salt in India.

Is saltpeter edible?

You could easily mistake saltpetre for table salt. The curing salt is not edible on its own and contains salt, sodium nitrite, glycerin with FD#3 used to colour it bright pink to prevent the cure from being mistaken for regular salt. Saltpetre is commonly used to make bacon, hams, corned pork and corned beef.

How does saltpeter explode?

Uses. Potassium nitrate is used in explosives. Oxygen from the air is the most common chemical that is used for oxidation, which is how most fires and explosions happen. Potassium nitrate replaces the need for oxygen and takes up much less space, which lets the explosion be stronger and faster.

Is nano3 explosive?

Explosive with shock, heat or friction. Sodium Nitrate decomposes explosively when heated > 538C (1000F).