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.