"Purple haze" experiment
How to make a purple sparkling smoke with aluminum and iodine
Chemical experiments come in different shapes and sizes: they may feature many colors, foam, fire etc. This experiment is impressive because in the interaction of two seemingly unremarkable substances, a sparkling and smoking volcano is formed.
Reagents and equipment:
- aluminum shavings;
- crystal iodine;
- water;
- porcelain cup;
- tweezers.
Step-by-step instructions
In the porcelain cup, mix the aluminum shavings and the crystal iodine. Add a little water. Observe the formation of sparks and the release of purple smoke.
Processes description
The mixture of aluminum and iodine does not react in itself, as aluminum is covered with an oxide layer, which protects it from chemical aggression, but if you add a little water, the reaction is accompanied by the release of aluminum sparks and gaseous iodine, and the formation of aluminum iodide. Water is the initiator of this reaction. The iodine, like other halogens, dissolves in water, with the formation of hydroiodic and hypoiodous acids, which dissolve the oxide layer from the surface of the aluminum. The aluminum then enters into a reaction with iodine, with the formation of aluminum iodide. This is an exothermic reaction, the heat released warms the crystal iodine and it sublimates, forming a purple vapor.
Safety precautions
Wear protective gloves and glasses and work in a well-ventilated room.
Warning! Only under professional supervision.
