mahmoud_ahmadinejad wrote:
I'm scared.
Thermite reaction: Alchemy do-it-yourself Laboratory Experiment
exothermic, spontaneous and therefore thermodynamically favorable.
Fe2 O3(s) + 2Al(s) -----> Al2 O3(s) + 2Fe(l)
Significant activation energy required; use burning Mg+ ribbon, or just a standard fuse. Iron Oxide is reduced to metall Iron w/ temp ~ 3000 C +. Combustion is dangerous and should be performed in the fume hood. Yields overhwelming smoke and relatively trace quantities of reactants. Some chemists allow molten Fe+ to drop into a water bucket because with creates addition smoke and steam (for effect, I guess). Violent explosion ensues. Do not try this at home.
Just thought you'd like to know! It's ok....I'm a chemist.
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The ones who say “You can’t” and “You won’t” are probably the ones scared that you will. - Unknown