What is the thermite reaction, and where is it used?

The thermite reaction is a highly exothermic reaction in which aluminium powder reacts with iron oxide to produce molten iron and aluminium oxide at ~3000°C.

Equation: 2Al + Fe₂O₃ → Al₂O₃ + 2Fe + Heat

Applications:

• Welding railway tracks molten iron fuses rail gaps (thermite welding)
• Incendiary applications
• Metal cutting in remote locations

The thermite reaction between aluminium and iron oxide releases intense heat (~3000°C) and is widely used for welding railway tracks.