Aluminum Reacting with Iron(III) Oxide (Thermite)

2Al + Fe₂O₃ → Al₂O₃ + 2Fe

Visão geral

The thermite reaction involves aluminum reducing iron(III) oxide to produce aluminum oxide and molten iron. This spectacularly exothermic reaction generates temperatures exceeding 2500 C, hot enough to melt iron. Once ignited (requires about 1500 C), it cannot be extinguished with water.

Participantes

Papel	Substância	Coeficiente	Estado
Reagente	Iron(III) Oxide Fe₂O₃	1	(s)
Reagente	Aluminum Al	2	(s)
Produto	Aluminum Oxide Al₂O₃	1	(s)
Produto	Iron Fe	2	(l)

Exemplo do cotidiano

The thermite reaction is used for emergency railroad track welding in the field, fusing rail ends with molten iron produced on-site.

Importância industrial

Utilizada na soldadura de carris ferroviários (soldadura por termite), no corte e demolição de metais, em dispositivos incendiários e na produção de certos metais a partir dos seus óxidos.

Propriedades

Tipo: Single Replacement
Reversível: Não
Energia: Exotérmico
ΔH: -851,5 kJ/mol

Reações relacionadas

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Aluminum Reacting with Iron(III) Oxide (Thermite)?

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

What type of reaction is Aluminum Reacting with Iron(III) Oxide (Thermite)?

Aluminum Reacting with Iron(III) Oxide (Thermite) is a single replacement reaction.

Is Aluminum Reacting with Iron(III) Oxide (Thermite) exothermic or endothermic?

Aluminum Reacting with Iron(III) Oxide (Thermite) is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -851.5 kJ/mol.