Reaction of Iron and Sulfur
Description: Insertion of a red-hot wire into a small pile of powdered iron and sulfur results in a glow that travels through the pile, plus a few sparks.
Source: Shakhashiri, B.Z. Chemical Demonstrations: A Handbook for Teachers of Chemistry
Year: 1983 Vol: 1 Page: 55
Keywords: Iron, Sulfur, Exothermic, Combustion
Rating: 
Hazard: Medium
- Flammability hazard
- Burn hazard
- Inhalation hazard
- Oxidizer
- Skin irritation
Effectiveness: Average
- Time to results is medium
- Moderate reliability
- Good effects are seen by audience
- Good connection from demo to course material
- Results are observable with guidance
Difficulty: Medium
- Sequential or timed manipulations
- Reaction at non-standard conditions
- Intermediate steps to results
- High temperature activation energy
- Manipulations are simple for most to perform
Safety Precautions:
- Thermal gloves required
- Eye protection required
- Lab coat recommended
- Perform in a well-ventilated area
- Heat-resistant surface required
- Downdraft hood recommended
- ABC fire extinguisher on hand
Class: Main Group Chemistry, Thermochemistry
Division: General
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