UPSC Prelims 2004·GS1·science-and-technology·materials and robotics

Salts of which of the following elements provide colours to fireworks?

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Last updated 23 May 2026, 3:31 pm IST
  1. AZinc and sulphur
  2. BPotassium and mercury
  3. CStrontium and bariumCorrect
  4. DChromium and nickel

Explanation

The correct option is C because different metal salts are added to fireworks to produce specific colors when they are heated. Strontium salts, such as strontium carbonate, are used to create intense red colors. Barium salts, such as barium chloride, are responsible for producing bright green colors. The other elements listed in the options do not produce the distinct, vibrant colors required for pyrotechnic displays. For example, zinc is used for smoke effects, while potassium is primarily used as an oxidizer rather than a primary coloring agent.
science-and-technology: Salts of which of the following elements provide colours to fireworks?

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