In rimfire ammunition, where is the gunpowder located in relation to the primer?

In rimfire ammunition, the gunpowder is located such that it is directly touching the primer. This design is crucial to how rimfire cartridges function. The primer in rimfire shells is built into the rim itself and is sensitive to impact. When the firing pin strikes the rim, it ignites the primer, which in turn ignites the gunpowder that is in direct contact with it.

This proximity allows for a quick and efficient ignition process, as the ignition of the primer needs to easily transfer its energy to the gunpowder to ensure a reliable discharge. By having the two components directly touching, it minimizes delays and improves the overall performance of the ammunition when fired. Other configurations, like having the gunpowder completely separate or encased in plastic, wouldn't facilitate the necessary ignition process as effectively as the rimfire design does.