Microscale Thermite Reaction

(sciencedemonstrations.fas.harvard.edu)

32 points | by krunck 2 hours ago ago

12 comments

  • imzadi an hour ago

    Does the second rusty ball really need to be a rusty ball since it is covered in foil?

    • xnx 11 minutes ago

      Might improve the odds of reaction to have iron on both sides? Would the reaction also work if both balls were covered in foil?

    • phyzome 12 minutes ago

      Doubles the reaction.

  • krunck 2 hours ago

    Please try this at home. You all have rusty iron ball laying around, right?

    • fer 2 hours ago

      It wouldn't be weird for someone in the south of France to have a rusty pétanque ball.

      • ece 9 minutes ago

        This clearly calls for thermite petanque.

    • jcims an hour ago

      Hammer faces would work (def wear goggles!!!). Hit the face of the disposable one with a mixture of hydrogen peroxide, vinegar and salt and wait an hour.

    • xattt 2 hours ago

      Joining the thread to see where iron balls can be sourced.

      Some vendor on AliExpress? Those Lucky Iron Fish?

      • mhb 21 minutes ago

        Cast iron pan left outside for a day or two.

      • dgacmu an hour ago

        This might work with old iron dumbbells (or modern iron kettle balls if left unpainted). Your gym might hate you for it though.

      • lstodd an hour ago

        I'd guess exact form wouldn't matter. Wrap a hammer in foil and beat up something rusty.

  • mrnotcrazy 31 minutes ago

    Does the ball need to be iron? Can we just take a 3d printed sphere, paint it with glue ,roll it around in a bucket of rust and then smash?