My reaction: Fireworks

Equation: 2KNO3 (potassium nitrate) + S (sulfur) + 3C (carbon in charcoal form) → K2S (potassium sulfide) + N2 (nitrogen gas) + 3CO2 (carbon dioxide)

The purpose of fireworks is to provide entertainment

Fireworks are a combustion reaction

Fireworks are a series of reactions, from the gunpowder reaction used to get the firework in the air, to the metal compound reaction that causes the iconic explosion

Fireworks require small amounts of energy in the form of flame, and produce large amounts of energy in their combustion

Fireworks cause greenhouse gases to be emitted into the atmosphere, as well as metal particles, dangerous toxins, and other harmful chemicals

Physical waste falls to the ground after an explosion. It can comprise of metals and chemicals. This physical waste can then find it's way into the soil and water

The raw materials are mined from mountains, a process that destroys forests and wildlife habitats. Leftover rock is discarded into valleys, which pollutes waterways

Fortunately, carbon neutral fireworks are in use in some parts of the world.

1: The stick is meant to align the firework and make sure it fires in the intended direction
2: The fuse lights all the parts of the firework that needs a combustion reaction to work. It can be longer or shorter, to allow for people to have time to get back before shooting.
3: The charge is a crude explosive that is meant to get the firework in the air so the colourful explosion can take place. The equation to the right is of the reaction that happens in the charge
4: The effect is the part of the firework that actually causes the colourful explosions in the air. There can be more than one effect, as seen in the above diagram, which has 3. The effect holds individual "stars" which are made of different chemicals that are selected based on what the manufacturer intends for the audience to see
5: The head is the general part that holds the effect. In this diagram, the head is pointed to improve aerodynamics

Technology assists in this reaction by facilitating the firework to travel upwards.

The "stars" technology allows us to make more complex and elaborate fireworks, rather than boring, simple fireworks.

Fireworks are linked to many respiratory conditions, such as bronchitis, asthma, and pneumonia

The product in this reaction is the large explosion we see in the sky and all the waste that comes from it. It is both positive and negative, because while it is beautiful to look at, it can have damaging effects on both our health and the environment.

268 million pounds of fireworks are made in the US alone

Other than on Victoria day and Canada day, a permit is required to use fireworks on private property. More powerful fireworks require a certification to use. Businesses that sell fireworks must have a special licence to do so.

Other than the cost to health and the environment, fireworks can be very expensive. A professionally done fireworks show can cost many thousands of dollars. Consumer fireworks, however, are relatively inexpensive, costing less that $100 for a large variety of fireworks.