Smokeless gunpowder became common in military use during the late 19th century, particularly after the introduction of smokeless powders like nitrocellulose in the 1880s. The French army was among the first to adopt it in 1886, followed by other nations as its advantages over traditional black powder became evident. By the early 1900s, smokeless gunpowder had largely replaced black powder in most firearms and artillery.
Smokeless gunpowder, primarily consisting of nitrocellulose and sometimes nitroglycerin, functions by rapidly converting chemical energy into gas upon ignition. When ignited, it produces a large volume of hot gas and heat, which generates high pressure in the firearm's chamber, propelling the bullet down the barrel. Unlike traditional black powder, smokeless gunpowder produces significantly less smoke, allowing for better visibility and performance in shooting. Its efficient combustion and higher energy density contribute to its widespread use in modern ammunition.
Traditional gunpowder (also commonly called black powder) is made of carbon, sulphur and potassium nitrate (saltpeter), most recently and commonly in the ratio 15:10:75 respectively. However, gunpowder ceased to be a common propellant for firearms early in the 20th century. Modern propellants are commonly known as smokeless powders rather than gunpowder, and are based on a combination of nitroglycerin, nitocellulose,and filler materials .
Pour poudre vives means it was made for smokeless powder (not for black powder, in other words it was made after smokeless powder came into common use).
Nothing was used in place of gunpowder during the Civil War. Gunpowder was made and used extensively by both sides. During the Civil War the guns used black powder for propellant. Modern guns use smokeless powder, which has a completely different chemical composition.
Ancient Romans did not use gunpowder. Gunpowder was invented by China around the middle ages.
Yes, firearms used to use black powder as the primary propellant for ammunition. Black powder, also known as gunpowder, was the earliest form of explosive propellant. It consisted of a mixture of sulfur, charcoal, and potassium nitrate, and it was commonly used in firearms until the development of smokeless powder in the late 19th century.
They used gunpowder for fireworks and weapons.
The first type of gunpowder was black powder which created smoke. Some firearms and other non-firearm related items use black powder for other uses (historical recreation). Most firearms nowadays that have cartridged bullets use a smokeless powder.
Who?
Gunpowder was invented by the Ancient Chinese. Gunpowder came to Europe in the 1260s.
There is no specific collective noun for gunpowder, in which case, you use an appropriate noun suited to the situation a pound of gunpowder, a flask of gunpowder, a box of gunpowder, etc.
The amount of gunpowder in an average bullet varies depending on the type and caliber of the cartridge. Typically, a standard centerfire bullet contains about 3 to 5 grains of smokeless powder, which translates to roughly 0.2 to 0.3 grams. Rimfire cartridges may have slightly less. Overall, the specific amount can differ based on the bullet's design and intended use.