Thermite Reaction

2Al + Fe₂O₃ → Al₂O₃ + 2Fe

Descripción general

Aluminum reduces iron(III) oxide in this extremely exothermic redox reaction, reaching temperatures above 2500 C. Aluminum is oxidized from Al⁰ to Al³⁺ (losing 3 electrons) while iron is reduced from Fe³⁺ to Fe⁰. Once ignited, the reaction is self-sustaining and produces molten iron.

Participantes

Rol	Sustancia	Coeficiente	Estado
Reactivo	Iron(III) Oxide Fe₂O₃	1	(s)
Reactivo	Aluminum Al	2	(s)
Producto	Aluminum Oxide Al₂O₃	1	(s)
Producto	Iron Fe	2	(l)

Ejemplo cotidiano

Railroad workers use thermite welding to join rail sections in the field, pouring molten iron into a mold around the rail joint.

Importancia industrial

Utilizada en soldadura aluminotérmica de carriles ferroviarios, corte de metales y producción de metales refractarios.

Propiedades

Tipo: Redox
Reversible: No
Energía: Exotérmico
ΔH: -851,5 kJ/mol

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Thermite Reaction?

The balanced equation is: 2Al + Fe₂O₃ → Al₂O₃ + 2Fe.

What type of reaction is Thermite Reaction?

Thermite Reaction is a redox reaction.

Is Thermite Reaction exothermic or endothermic?

Thermite Reaction is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -851.5 kJ/mol.