X860: Prep Notes
Introduction
Addition of a liquid to a crystalline substance produces smoke an intense violet flames.
Equations:
14KMnO4(s) + 4HOCH2CH(OH)CH2OH(l) → 7K2CO3(s) + 7Mn2O3(s) + 5CO2(g) + 16H2O(l)
Prior to Lecture (prep time ~ 5 min.)
Assemble the following:
- Heat resistant mat
- dropper bottle of glycerol (glycerin)
- scoopula to arrange the powder once it is in place on the bench
- goggles
- gloves
Prepare
Prepare a few grams of powdered KMnO4 (potassium permanganate) by grinding fresh granular KMnO4 to a fine powder with a mortar and pestle.
Heap the powder in the center of a clear evaporating dish.
Make a depression in the center of the heap, creating a “volcano” shape, so the glycerol will remain in the depression and thus in contact with the permanganate.
To Conduct Demonstration:
- Set up a heat resistant mat next to an operating vent in the bench top.
- Add 10 to 15 drops of glycerol to the depression in the center of a pile of finely ground potassium permanganate in an evaporating dish on a heat proof surface.
- Stand back! Within a few seconds, the glycerol will be violently oxidized by the permanganate producing smoke and violet flames.
Demo Time: ~10 minutes
Safety and Disposal
This is a delayed reaction and produces intense heat, flames, and smoke. Perform only in a well-ventilated room and on a heat-proof surface. Wear goggles.