Single Replacement Reactions

Julia Hyland                                                                                        March 28, 2011

Chemistry                                                                                            Block 7

THERMITE REACTION:

A thermite reaction is a highly exothermic reaction between a metal and the oxide of another metal.  For example, the reaction of molten or powdered magnesium with iron oxide to form magnesium oxide and molten iron. 

The thermite reaction is important, as it is used in various important applications.  Thermite reactions can be used for repairs by cutting or welding steel, such as rail-road tracks.  Thermite reactions can also be used to purify the ores of some metals.  An adaption of this process is used to obtain pure uranium. 

EXAMPLE:

            Fe₂O₃ + 2Al --> Al₂O₃ + 2Fe
Fe₂O₃ = iron oxide
Al₂O₃ = aluminum oxide

è example of single replacement reaction:

Zinc + hydrochloric acid --> Zinc chloride + hydrogen

Zn + 2HCl --> ZnCl₂ + H₂