Composition of powder.
Gunpowder is an explosive propellant agent; a mechanical combination and intimate mixture of saltpetre, charcoal, and sulphur, in certain fixed proportions, the result of successive experiments.
To be effective, Gunpowder should,
Ought to keep without deterioration.
1st.—Preserve itself in a good state, whether in magazine or in carriage.
Leave no residue.
2nd.—Leave as little residue as possible after ignition.
Combine quickness and power.
3rd.—Should combine a certain quickness of combustion with great explosive force.