The reaction of aluminum with the oxides of a variety of elements (aluminothermy, or the Goldschmidt process) illustrates exothermic reactions that require a high activation energy. It is also an appropriate experiment with regard to the discussion of Ellingham diagrams. Because it is spectacular, this reaction is a favorite for demonstrations. When drama is not the main objective, conducting these reactions at microscale level offers numerous advantages over the usual scale.
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Citation
Arnáiz, Francisco J.; Aguado, Rafael; Arnáiz, Susana. J. Chem. Educ.1998 75 1630.
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