Formation of Tungsten Carbide

W + C → WC

Overview

Tungsten metal and carbon combine at very high temperatures (1400-1600 C) to form tungsten carbide, one of the hardest known materials. Tungsten carbide has a hardness approaching that of diamond and exceptional wear resistance.

Participants

Role	Substance	Coefficient	State
Reactant	Tungsten W	1	(s)
Reactant	Carbon C	1	(s)
Product	Tungsten Carbide WC	1	(s)

Everyday Example

Tungsten carbide is used in drill bits, cutting tools, jewelry (wedding bands), and the tips of ballpoint pens.

Industrial Importance

Tungsten carbide is critical for metalworking tools, mining equipment, and abrasion-resistant coatings. The cemented carbide industry is worth over $20 billion globally.

Properties

Type: Synthesis
Reversible: No
Energy: Exothermic
ΔH: -40.5 kJ/mol

Related Reactions

Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis (General) Formation of Aluminum Oxide Formation of Ammonia (Haber Process) Formation of Barium Oxide Formation of Barium Sulfate Formation of Beryllium Oxide Formation of Cadmium Oxide Formation of Calcium Carbonate from Oxides Formation of Calcium Hydroxide Formation of Calcium Oxide (Quicklime)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Formation of Tungsten Carbide?

The balanced equation is: W + C → WC.

What type of reaction is Formation of Tungsten Carbide?

Formation of Tungsten Carbide is a synthesis reaction.

Is Formation of Tungsten Carbide exothermic or endothermic?

Formation of Tungsten Carbide is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -40.5 kJ/mol.