126 Dr. Cutbush on the Chinese Fire, &c. 
rays of the sun. In porportion to the velocity of which, the 
flame is more perfect. 
. There are certain compositions, commonly denominated 
white-fire, which are used in cases, and give motion to wheels 
and the like. This motion is on the rocket principle, and 
depends on the propelling power (gaseous products,) of 
the inflamed matter acting against a resisting medium, 
namely, the atmosphere. Chinese fire, however, possesses 
in this respect but little force ; and hence when itis used in 
rotatory works, it is accompanied with two or more jets or 
cases of white fire. Cases charged with chinese fire, 
when it alone, will not communicate motion to a wheel. 
As the effect of Chinese fire on wheels, to the periphery of 
which the cases are usually fixed, depends greatly on the 
motion given to the wheel, its velocity should therefore be 
accelerated; which although the duration of its effect 
would be shorter; but more brilliant, may be produced by 
employing several cases of white fire, and communicating 
their fire one to the other by means of quick match in the 
usual manner. 
he accelerated motion, thus given, would cause the com- 
position to burn with more rapidity, in the same manner as a 
bellows would excite the heat of a furnace, and necessarily 
es 
te the impelling power; for the resistance which the fire 
meets from the air, in the immediate vicinity of the calibre 
