What does it mean "special chemicals are used to reduce smoke or lingering sparks"?

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cryogenic man - 31 Jul 2009 14:57 GMT

What does the infinitive "to reduce" mean in this sentence?

"Pyrotechnics are also used extensively in musical concerts and
television studios. Special chemicals are used to reduce smoke or
lingering sparks."

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-pyrotechnics.htm

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John Kane - 31 Jul 2009 19:28 GMT

> What does the infinitive "to reduce" mean in this sentence?
>
> "Pyrotechnics are also used extensively in musical concerts and
> television studios.
>
> http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-pyrotechnics.htm

It would probably read better as:
Special chemicals are used to reduce the amount of smoke or lingering
sparks." The chemicals supress the smoke or extinguish the sparks but
probably are not completely successful.

John Kane, Kingston ON Canada

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Discussion Groups / English Usage / July 2009

What does it mean "special chemicals are used to reduce smoke or lingering sparks"?