Fireworks contain various chemical compounds that produce different colors when burned. Parts of a firework include a break, time delay fuse, and stars that explode separately. A firework is propelled into the air by a lift charge after the fuse ignites black powder in the launching tube. Chemical reactions between substances like potassium chlorate and gunpowder produce heat and light. Common firework designs include palms, chrysanthemums, and roundels. The Chinese invented fireworks over 1000 years ago to scare spirits, and they have since evolved with many technological and safety improvements.