Question

Give the uses of aluminium as having a strong affinity for oxygen.

Answer 1

Aluminium has a strong affinity for oxygen and therefore acts as a reducing agent. It is used:

1. In thermite welding, to reduce metal oxides and produce molten metals.
   \[\ce{Fe2O3 + 2Al -> Al2O3 + 2Fe + heat}\]
2. For extracting metals such as chromium and manganese from their oxides by the aluminothermic process.