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Question

What is a thermite reaction? Explain with the help of an equation. State one use of this reaction.

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Solution

A thermite reaction is a reaction in which a metal oxide is reduced by using aluminium as the reducing agent. It is generally exothermic in nature, wherein a large amount of heat is liberated. Due to this heat, the metals produced are in the molten state.
An example of a thermite reaction is the reduction of iron (III) oxide by using aluminium powder.


Fe2O3(s) Iron (III) oxide +2Al(s) Aluminium powder 2Fe(l) Iron +Al2O3(s) Aluminium oxide +Heat

Iron metal is produced when a mixture of iron (III) oxide and aluminium powder is ignited with a magnesium ribbon. The iron, so obtained, is in the molten state due to a large amount of heat liberated in the process. This is used to weld broken pieces of iron.


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