[b][[Explosive]] [[ammunition]][/b] that is loaded in and fired from [b][[mortar (weapon)|mortar]]s[/b]. It is also commonly referred as mortar round or [[bomb]]. It comes in various calibers. Mortar shells generally comes in two main varieties: fin-stabilized and spin-stabilized.
Lighter (approximately 60 mm) mortar shells could be thrown by hand like [[grenade]]s, but with shorter range due to its weight and higher risk. [spoiler]In fact, few "soldiers during World War II could do that":[https://www.wearethemighty.com/popular/yes-world-war-ii-soldiers-could-throw-mortar-rounds-like-grenades/]. This action is featured on movies like Saving Private Ryan and Hacksaw Ridge.[/spoiler]

Mortars can fire different types of shells. Some of these are:
* [b]High explosive.[/b] This is a normal round which explodes when it hits the ground.
* [b]Smoke round.[/b] This creates thick smoke, it can be various colours. It is fired on enemy positions or in open areas to block visibility, so friendly forces can move without being visible.
* [b]White phosphorus.[/b] This makes a thick [[smoke]] screen to blind and burn the enemy, causing second and third degree burns from the explosion.
* [b][[Illumination]] round.[/b] This is a flare which hangs underneath a parachute. It lights up the [[battlefield]] at night.

"Wikipedia page":[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mortar_(weapon)#Ammunition]
mortar shell