Do you ever wonder what makes the brilliant colors that we see in the sky when fireworks explode? The answer is salt! Now, I’m not talking about the stuff on your kitchen table (although that’s a salt too!) Salts in chemistry are ionic compounds- made of a metal ion and a nonmetal ion. And different metals produce light that’s different colors.

Download this FREE coloring sheet to learn which elements give fireworks their colors. Then, put your new knowledge to use with a color-by-element sheet. Finally, use what you’ve learned about the chemistry of firework colors to impress your family the next time you watch a fireworks display!

And if you’re looking for another fun fireworks activity, check out our fireworks in your kitchen! This activity is easy and fun to do over and over again!

Also, check out these amazing infographics about fireworks by Compound Interest.