Formation of Aluminum Oxide

4Al + 3O2 → 2Al2O3

Aperçu

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.

Participants

Rôle Substance Coefficient État
Réactif Oxygen O 3 (g)
Réactif Aluminum Al 4 (s)
Produit Aluminum Oxide Al₂O₃ 2 (s)

Exemple du quotidien

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

Importance industrielle

Aluminum oxide is used as an abrasive (corundum), in ceramics, as catalyst support material, and as the starting material for aluminum metal production via the Hall-Heroult process.

Propriétés

Type
Synthesis
Réversible
Non
Énergie
Exothermique
ΔH
-3351,4 kJ/mol

Réactions associées

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.