Thermite reaction: The term

The term " Thermite " refers to the mixture of aluminum and ferric oxide used in this experiment. It is sold commercially and is used for such applications as railroad welding and incendiary bombs. Learn what thermite reaction is, how it works and why it is useful. Find out the chemical equation, the redox process and the applications of thermite in welding, refining and fireworks. The thermite reaction is initiated by the heat released from the mixture of potassium permanganate and glycerine. Use of the ignition of magnesium ribbon to initiate the desired reaction is not as reliable as the one given. Materials Preparation: 50 – 55 g iron (III) oxide powder, Fe 2 O 3 15 g aluminum powder Thermite burns at more than 2,200 °C—hotter than molten lava—and yields aluminum oxide and metallic iron. The reaction is used in construction to weld steel and in war to melt through enemy ...