The Basic Firing Process
Pulling the trigger causes the firing pin to strike and explode the primer in the base of the cartridge. The spark from the primer ignites the gunpowder, which burns rapidly and converts to a gas. The gas rapidly expands and drives the projectile(s) through the barrel with great force.
![Projectile being shot from the barrel](https://ke-courses-production.s3.amazonaws.com/asset_files/production/663/attachments/original/ammo-firing.jpg?1497631416)