Magnesium - Elements in Fireworks

Elements in Fireworks

While you'll see magnesium used in a variety of different fireworks, one excellent example of their use is for making bright sparks in sparklers.
While you'll see magnesium used in a variety of different fireworks, one excellent example of their use is for making bright sparks in sparklers. Taro Hama @ e-kamakura, Getty Images
by Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D.
Dr. Helmenstine holds a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences and is a science writer, educator, and consultant. She has taught science courses at the high school, college, and graduate levels.
Updated August 08, 2019

Magnesium Firework Facts

Symbol: Mg

Name: Magnesium

Use: Magnesium burns a very bright white, so it is used to add white sparks or improve the overall brilliance of a firework. It is also used as a fuel.

Sources: Magnesium for pyrotechnics is usually sold as a powder. It is available from pyrotechnic suppliers online.

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