What happens after the firing pin strikes the primer in a rifle?

When the firing pin strikes the primer, the primer contains a small amount of explosive material that ignites upon impact. This ignition causes the primer to explode, which creates a spark. This spark is crucial as it then ignites the gunpowder in the cartridge. The rapid burning of the gunpowder generates a significant amount of gas and pressure, which propels the bullet down the barrel and out of the rifle. This sequence of events is critical for the operation of a firearm, as the energy produced by the ignited gunpowder is what ultimately launches the bullet.