Question

Research into the thermite reaction (displacement reaction) used in the welding of rail tracks. Write out the equation and identify where REDuction and OXidation occur. You should also be able to explain why this reaction is suitable for joining train tracks together.

Answer 1

See explanation

Step-by-step explanation:

The thermite reaction is a redox reaction that is very important in metallurgy. The reaction is as follows;

2 Al(s) + Fe2O3(s) --> 2Fe (s) + Al2O3 (s).

In this reaction, aluminium is oxidized from 0 to +3 oxidation state while iron is reduced from +3 to zero oxidation state from left to right respectively as shown in the reaction equation above.

This reaction occurs at high temperature and as a result of this, it can be used to join metals at such high temperature. This is why the reaction can be used to join rail tracks.