What is the purpose of gunpowder in a cartridge?

The purpose of gunpowder in a cartridge is to create high pressure when ignited. When the trigger is pulled and the firing pin strikes the primer, the gunpowder ignites and rapidly converts to gas, producing a tremendous amount of pressure. This pressure forces the bullet down the barrel and out of the firearm at a high velocity.

Understanding this function is crucial for grasping how firearms operate. The generation of high pressure is essential for propelling the bullet effectively and ensuring it reaches its intended target with accuracy and force. Other components of the cartridge, such as the casing and the bullet itself, serve different roles, but the gunpowder's primary role focuses on generating the explosive energy required for firing.