What is the function of the propellant in ammunition?

The propellant in ammunition serves the critical function of providing the thrust needed to launch the projectile. When the primer is struck, it ignites the propellant, which rapidly burns and generates a large volume of gas at high pressure. This gas expands quickly and forces the projectile down the barrel, overcoming inertia. The effectiveness of the propellant ensures that the projectile exits the barrel at a high velocity, enabling it to reach its target effectively.

Stabilizing the projectile, creating sound, and minimizing recoil are secondary effects or considerations that arise from the firing process but do not pertain to the primary purpose of the propellant itself. The primary role is to create the necessary combustion and gas expansion that propels the projectile forward.