Mock Sun
- Page ID
- 3015
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Chemical Concept Demonstrated
- Chemistry of phosphorus
Demonstration
| A flask is filled with O2, and phosphorus is ignited and immersed in the flask (picture #2). |  |
Observations
The phosphorus lights up brightly. As the flask fills with smoke, the entire flask gives off a uniform glow.
Explanation
Phosphorus reacts with oxygen in an exothermic reaction:
P4 (s) + O2 (g) --> P4O10 (s)
This reaction produces so much light that it is nicknamed the "Mock Sun."
Contributors
- Dr. George Bodner (Perdue University)