TOUCH PAPER Meaning and
Definition
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"Touch paper" refers to a thin strip of material impregnated with an inflammable substance, such as gunpowder or phosphorus. It is designed to ignite easily with the slightest contact or friction, acting as a fuse or ignition source for larger explosive devices.
Typically, touch paper is made from a combination of sulfur, potassium nitrate, and charcoal, which creates a highly flammable substance. The properties of touch paper enable it to burn rapidly and consistently, making it suitable for various applications, especially in the field of pyrotechnics.
The primary purpose of touch paper is to provide a reliable means of initiating the combustion process when used in conjunction with fireworks, firecrackers, or other explosives. It is often attached to the main explosive device and ignited by a spark or open flame, causing the fire to travel along its length, ultimately triggering the larger explosion or firework display.
The significance of touch paper lies in its role as a catalyst, enabling controlled and coordinated ignition of fireworks or other explosive materials. It allows for precise timing, safety, and synchronization when pyrotechnic displays are organized. Moreover, in historical contexts, touch paper had military applications, being used to ignite cannons, muskets, or other firearms with greater ease and efficiency.
Overall, touch paper serves as a vital component in the realm of pyrotechnics and explosive devices, ensuring the safe ignition and execution of fireworks displays, as well as facilitating controlled explosions.
Common Misspellings for TOUCH PAPER
- fouch paper
- gouch paper
- youch paper
- 6ouch paper
- 5ouch paper
- tiuch paper
- tkuch paper
- tluch paper
- tpuch paper
- t0uch paper
- t9uch paper
- toych paper
- tohch paper
- tojch paper
- toich paper
- to8ch paper
- to7ch paper
- touxh paper
- touvh paper
- toufh paper
Etymology of TOUCH PAPER
The term "touch paper" has its origins in late Middle English and is a compound noun derived from the words "touch" and "paper".
The word "touch" comes from the Old French word "tuchier" or "tochier", which means "to touch" or "to come into contact with". This word can be traced back to the Latin term "toccare".
The word "paper" comes from the Middle English word "papire" or "paper", which is derived from the Old French word "papier" or "papel". The Old French term has its roots in the Latin word "papyrus", referring to the plant used in ancient times to make writing material.
When the two words "touch" and "paper" are combined, "touch paper" refers to a type of slightly flammable paper or fuse used to ignite explosives, fireworks, or other devices.
Idioms with the word TOUCH PAPER
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light the blue touch paper
To "light the blue touch paper" means to do or say something that ignites a situation, causing excitement, controversy, or conflict. It refers to lighting a fuse on a firework, which starts a chain reaction leading to an explosive outcome.
