Searching for a way to take your chemistry class to the next level? Provide pupils with an exciting and educational experiment demonstrating the thermite reaction! The mixture of aluminum powder and iron oxide allows young chemists to witness the effects of an aluminothermic reaction, while providing time to explore the history of its use.

Concepts

chemical compounds, chemical reactions, iron, aluminum

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Perform experiment outdoors, on a concrete surface and away from anything flammable

Classroom Considerations

• Use a safety shield to protect pupils from possible injury
• Thermite is explosive and should not be prepared until needed

Pros

• Hands-on application allows individuals to visualize the process of creating small quantities of molten steel
• The intense reaction during the experiment is exciting to learners 

Cons

• Safety is a concern; ensure pupils are very cautious during the entire process to avoid injury
• No assessment is provided for this experiment