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How to Dramatically Demonstrate a Decomposition Reaction

video How to Dramatically Demonstrate a Decomposition Reaction

This chemical volcano is a result of the decomposition of Ammonium Dichromate.

A decomposition reaction (aka analysis reaction) follows the general formula below

A--> B + C

A compound breaks down into smaller components.

This is the demonstration of the decomposition of Ammonium Dichromate

(NH4)2Cr2O7 ---> N2 + 4H2O + Cr2O3

Cr2O3 -the green solid

Notes

Chromium III and chromium VI, as well at its compounds, including ammonium dichromate, are known carcinogens. Chromium will irritate the mucous membranes. Therefore, take care to perform this demonstration in a well-ventilated area (preferably a ventilation hood) and avoid skin contact or inhalation of the materials. Wear gloves and safety goggles when handling ammonium dichromate.

18 comments

Jul 29, 2009. 2:34 AMantienoob says:

were could i find the materials needed for this. cose i so wont to try this at home.

Jun 25, 2009. 7:55 AMpwest71 says:

Any way to make a similar effect, but safe for in a home? Looking to make a "faux" volcano/waterfall.....

May 17, 2009. 5:45 PMMacLean says:

so what chemical is first burned? ammonium?

May 17, 2009. 4:38 PMduckman1970 says:

yah it worked whoooo BANG! ahhh ahhhhh ahhhhhhh sick volcano man

Apr 21, 2009. 4:09 PMszechuan53 says:

very nice I also needed a shovel (I just used a little beach shovel though)

Mar 26, 2009. 4:38 PMhacedor says:

I needed a shovel!?!

Sep 21, 2008. 8:12 AMThe Fallen says:

this is a decomposition reaction, where is all the energy coming from? breaking bonds requires energy, correct?

Feb 10, 2009. 3:31 AMHolden_vy_s says:

Heat is energy. Did you now watch the clip?

Oct 7, 2008. 3:54 PMchibiturtleboi says:

Well, he kinda heated it up with a torch.. =/ If that's not energy, then I don't know what is.

Dec 18, 2008. 4:34 PMArbitror says:

That is neat!

Jul 28, 2008. 7:05 PM

I_am_Canadian says:

lol looks like a volcano

Oct 22, 2010. 6:24 PMalwinovich says:

nice jou must be the first one to notice that on the whole world! congrats! would you like a cookie?

Aug 24, 2008. 8:32 AMalwinovich says:

lol

Aug 21, 2008. 9:18 AM

I_am_Canadian says:

I would love one, thanks.

Aug 13, 2008. 10:47 PMtubajoey1 says:

where might i get the materials for this? like, somewhere i could go locally, not the internet. thanks!

Jul 12, 2008. 5:35 AMbig-jamie says:

makes a hell of a mess lol but very cool (H)

Feb 2, 2008. 1:14 PMGorillazMiko says:

Looks awesomely awesome to the most awesomeness of awesome, keep up the great videos!

Feb 2, 2008. 10:28 AMtyeo098 says:

Ultimate science fair volcano!

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Author:kentchemistry.com