Chemistry experiment 49 – Whistling Test Tube: reaction between sulfur and iron



Some steel wool is put in a test tube containing a small quantity of sulfur. As the test tube is heated, the following reaction will occur:

Fe + S → FeS

During the heating, a loud whistle can be heard. This is a physical phenomenon known as a thermoacoustic engine or a Rijke tube. The whistle is produced by ascending air inside the tube.

Safety:
- During heating, toxic sulfur vapors may escape and ignite.


Post time: Feb-26-2017