Question

Thermite welding is caused by the formation of which compound?

• A. Al
• B. Fe
• C. Fe\(_2\)O\(_3\)
• D. FeO

Hint:

The Thermite reaction is highly exothermic and can generate temperatures exceeding 2500°C, which is why it is used in welding applications such as rail track repair.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Thermite welding is a process that uses a highly exothermic reaction between aluminum powder and iron(III) oxide (Fe\(_2\)O\(_3\)) to generate enough heat to melt and weld metal. This reaction is known as the "Thermite reaction" and occurs as follows: \[ \text{Fe}_2\text{O}_3(s) + 2\text{Al}(s) \rightarrow 2\text{Fe}(l) + Al_2O_3(s) \] In this reaction:

Aluminum (Al) acts as a reducing agent, and iron oxide (Fe\(_2\)O\(_3\)) is reduced to iron (Fe).
The heat generated in the reaction is sufficient to melt the iron, which is used in welding metals.

Thus, thermite welding is caused by the formation of iron (Fe) from iron(III) oxide (Fe\(_2\)O\(_3\)), making option (C) the correct answer.