Question

The composition of the thermite mixture by mass is

• A. Iron (III) oxide and aluminum powder in the ratio $1:3$
• B. Aluminum powder and iron (III) oxide in the ratio $1:3$
• C. Aluminum powder and barium peroxide in the ratio of $1:3$
• D. Barium peroxide and aluminum powder in the ratio of $1:3$

Answer 1

The correct option is B Aluminum powder and iron (III) oxide in the ratio $1:3$

Thermite mixture is a pyrotechnic composition of metal powder fuel and metal oxide. It has a diverse composition including aluminum because of its high boiling point and low cost. Oxidizers include iron(III) oxide. This mixture is used for thermite welding, often used to join rail tracks, metal refining, weapons, fireworks, etc.
The chemical equation for the thermite reaction is

$2A{l}_{\text{(s)}}+F{e}_2{O}_{3\text{(s)}}\to 2F{e}_{\text{(s)}}+A{l}_2{O}_{3\text{(s)}}$