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Thermite Description A reddish powder is ignited, producing intense heat, sparks, bright flame, and yellow-hot liquid iron. Explanation Thermite is a mixture of powdered aluminum (Al), the same metal that pop cans and aluminum foil are made of, and ferric oxide (Fe2O3), or rust. It is used in industry as a source of localized high heat, for welding railroad ties together, and by the military in incendiary devices. When this mixture is ignited, the reaction produces so much heat that the iron metal comes out as a yellow-hot liquid. The temperature of this reaction can reach 3,000 ºC, or 5,400 ºF!
still have questions? email us! explanation furnished by UCCS's Dr. David Anderson
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Al2O3 + 2Fe