In the joining of railway tracks, iron oxide is made to react with

In the joining of railway tracks, iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3) is reacted with aluminium powder in a process known as the thermite or aluminothermic reaction [1]. This displacement reaction is highly exothermic, generating temperatures between 2000°C and 3000°C. Because aluminium is more reactive than iron, it reduces the iron oxide to produce molten iron and aluminium oxide slag [1]. The heat evolved is so intense that the iron is produced in a liquid state, which then flows into the gap between the rail tracks to fuse them together upon solidification [1]. This method is preferred for railway maintenance because it requires no external power source and creates a permanent, high-strength bond capable of withstanding heavy loads. The reaction is typically ignited using a magnesium ribbon to provide the necessary initial activation energy.

Sources

1. [1] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 3: Metals and Non-metals > 3MnO2 (s) + 4Al(s) → 3Mn(l) + 2Al2O3 (s) + Heat > p. 52