Formation of Aluminum Oxide

4Al + 3O2 → 2Al2O3

Descripción general

Aluminum reacts with oxygen to form aluminum oxide (alumina). While aluminum appears resistant to corrosion, it actually oxidizes instantly in air, forming a thin protective oxide layer that prevents further reaction. Powdered aluminum burns vigorously in oxygen.

Participantes

Rol Sustancia Coeficiente Estado
Reactivo Oxygen O 3 (g)
Reactivo Aluminum Al 4 (s)
Producto Aluminum Oxide Al₂O₃ 2 (s)

Ejemplo cotidiano

The dull gray coating on aluminum cans and foil is a thin layer of aluminum oxide that protects the metal from further corrosion.

Importancia industrial

El óxido de aluminio se usa como abrasivo (corindón), en cerámica, como soporte catalítico y como material de partida para la producción de aluminio metálico mediante el proceso Hall-Héroult.

Propiedades

Tipo
Synthesis
Reversible
No
Energía
Exotérmico
ΔH
-3351,4 kJ/mol

Reacciones relacionadas

Formation of Calcium Hydroxide Formation of Carbon Monoxide Formation of Nitrogen Dioxide Formation of Potassium Chloride Formation of Sodium Bicarbonate Formation of Sodium Peroxide Formation of Silicon Dioxide Formation of Tungsten Carbide Formation of Copper(II) Sulfide Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis (General)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Formation of Aluminum Oxide?
The balanced equation is: 4Al + 3O₂ → 2Al₂O₃.
What type of reaction is Formation of Aluminum Oxide?
Formation of Aluminum Oxide is a synthesis reaction.
Is Formation of Aluminum Oxide exothermic or endothermic?
Formation of Aluminum Oxide is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -3351.4 kJ/mol.