Question

Question #70f88

Answer 1

We know that the Potassium Nitrate (saltpeter) `"KNO"_3` is an oxidizer. Sugar, `"C"_12"H"_22"O"_11` is oxidized by the potassium nitrate.

Sugar acts as fuel, and potassium nitrate provides the oxygen needed for the combustion reaction to take place. The products are potassium carbonate, carbon dioxide gas, water, and nitrogen gas.

The Chemical equation for the reaction which produces energy in the form of heat, light and sound is

`5"C"_12"H"_22"O"_11 + 48"KNO"_3 ->`
`color (white)(WWWWWWWWWW) 24"K"_2"CO"_3 + 36"CO"_2 + 55"H"_2"O" + 24"N"_2`
The large amount of gases released through a small opening provided at one end of rocket are capable of providing adequate propulsion.

Reaction video

Enjoy potassium nitrate-sugar Rocket being propelled.