The Reduction of Iron Oxide by Carbon

Metals high in the reactivity series will reduce the oxides of those lower down in the reactivity series. This video demonstrates a burnt match (containing carbon on the outside) being dipped in sodium carbonae and then Iron(III) oxide. The match is then placed in the fire to initiate the redox reaction producing iron and carbon dioxide/monoxide. The iron produced is demonstrated when the match head is crushed and a magnet used to lift up the iron.

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For more information: Classic Chemistry Experiments, Kevin Hutchings, Royal Society of Chemistry, UK, ISBN 085404 9193