Reaction of Zinc and Iodine
Description: The addition of a few mL of water to a mixture of elemental zinc and iodine results in evolution of purple vapor and heat.
This demonstration is also available on video and JCE “Chemistry Comes Alive!” CD-Rom Vol 1
Source: Shakhashiri, B.Z. Chemical Demonstrations: A Handbook for Teachers of Chemistry
Year: 1983 Vol: 1 Page: 49
Keywords: Zinc, Iodine, Exothermic, Vapor, Heat, Water
Rating: 
Hazard: Medium
- Acute toxicity hazard – dermal, inhalation
- Burn hazard
- Skin irritation
- Eye irritation
- Short term aquatic toxicity hazard
- Specific organ toxicity – thyroid, respiratory system
Effectiveness: Good
- Results are clearly observable without guidance
- Moderate reliability
- Time to results is low
- Fair connection from demo to course material
- Moderate effects are seen by audience
Difficulty: High
- Intermediate steps to results
- Sequential manipulations
- Volume-dependent additions for proper results
- Prior training recommended
- Demos at non-standard conditions
Safety Precautions:
- Thermal gloves required
- Eye protection required
- Perform in a well-ventilated area
- Heat resistant surface recommended
- Downdraft hood recommended
- Avoid exposure to gases, dusts, and vapors
- Prevent release of reagents to the environment
Class: Main Group Chemistry
Division: General
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