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