テルミット反応

錆とアルミニウムから溶融鉄を生成する極めて発熱性の高い酸化還元反応

Classroom Demonstrations Advanced (University) 30 分 ~$15.00

目的

アルミニウムが酸化鉄を溶融鉄に還元する極端な発熱酸化還元反応を実証する。

背景

The thermite reaction (2Al + Fe₂O₃ → Al₂O₃ + 2Fe) is one of the most exothermic chemical reactions known. Aluminum reduces iron(III) oxide to produce molten iron and aluminum oxide, reaching temperatures above 2500°C. The reaction is driven by the much greater affinity of aluminum for oxygen compared to iron (the activity series in dramatic action). Thermite is used industrially for welding railroad tracks and cutting through steel.

安全上の警告

  • EXTREME CAUTION: Reaction produces temperatures above 2500°C
  • Perform OUTDOORS ONLY with at least 10 m clearance
  • Molten iron droplets are ejected — no one within 5 meters
  • Heavy-duty safety shield is mandatory
  • Have a Class D fire extinguisher on hand (not water or CO₂)
  • Aluminum powder is an explosion hazard — keep away from flame until ready
  • Never attempt to move or disturb the reaction once ignited
  • Wait at least 30 minutes for products to cool before approaching

必要なPPE

goggles gloves lab_coat face_shield

材料

  • Iron(III) oxide (Fe₂O₃) powder (50 g)
    Fine rust powder
  • Aluminum powder (15 g)
    Fine mesh (200+)
  • Magnesium ribbon (20 cm)
    Ignition fuse
  • Sand (5 kg)
    Insulation bed

器具

Clay flower pot (with drainage hole plugged) Ring stand with iron ring Metal bucket filled with dry sand Safety shield (heavy duty) Fire extinguisher (Class D) Long-handled lighter or match holder

手順

1

OUTDOORS ONLY: Set up the ring stand over the sand-filled bucket. Place the clay pot (with drainage hole plugged with a small wad of paper) on the iron ring.

5 分 10 m minimum clearance from buildings
2

Mix 50 g Fe₂O₃ with 15 g Al powder thoroughly (by weight, approximately 3:1 ratio) in the clay pot.

3 分 No open flames near Al powder
3

Insert the magnesium ribbon into the top of the mixture as a fuse. Ensure the shield is positioned correctly.

2 分
4

Ensure all observers are at least 5 meters away and behind cover. Light the magnesium ribbon with a long lighter and retreat immediately.

2 分 RETREAT IMMEDIATELY after igniting
5

Observe from safe distance: the reaction produces an intensely bright white-orange glow and sparks. Molten iron drips through the pot into the sand below.

3 分 Do not look directly at the reaction without eye protection
6

Wait at least 30 minutes for everything to cool. Dig through the sand to find the solidified iron button.

10 分 Products may still be very hot
7

Examine the iron button and white Al₂O₃ slag. Discuss: activity series, enthalpy of formation, why Al is used in thermite (high affinity for O₂), and industrial applications.

5 分

予想される結果

An intensely bright, self-sustaining reaction lasting 10–20 seconds. Molten iron collects at the bottom (a solid metal button when cooled). White Al₂O₃ slag forms on top. The reaction demonstrates the extreme energy difference between Al-O and Fe-O bonds.

後片付け

Once fully cooled, collect the iron button and slag. Sand can be reused. Do not pour water on hot products. Dispose of residue in general waste.

詳細

カテゴリ
Classroom Demonstrations
難易度
Advanced (University)
所要時間
30 分
推定費用
$15.00
ステップ数
7
材料
4

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the objective of テルミット反応?
アルミニウムが酸化鉄を溶融鉄に還元する極端な発熱酸化還元反応を実証する。
How difficult is テルミット反応?
This experiment is rated as Advanced (University). It takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.
What safety precautions are needed for テルミット反応?
Key safety precautions include: EXTREME CAUTION: Reaction produces temperatures above 2500°C; Perform OUTDOORS ONLY with at least 10 m clearance; Molten iron droplets are ejected — no one within 5 meters.
What materials are needed for テルミット反応?
The main materials required are: Iron(III) oxide (Fe₂O₃) powder, Aluminum powder, Magnesium ribbon, Sand.
What results should I expect from テルミット反応?
An intensely bright, self-sustaining reaction lasting 10–20 seconds. Molten iron collects at the bottom (a solid metal button when cooled). White Al₂O₃ slag forms on top. The reaction demonstrates the extreme energy difference between Al-O and Fe-O bonds.