Why A Silica Powder Is Melting But Not Burnt When Heated?

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Silica powder does not burn when heated because it is already a product of a reaction between silicon and oxygen, similar to carbon dioxide. Unlike organic materials, which can decompose and char, silica remains stable and does not exhibit burning characteristics. The comparison to burnt bread highlights that burnt bread undergoes a different chemical process involving carbohydrate decomposition. Silica's properties prevent it from changing color or structure in the same way. Understanding these differences clarifies why silica can melt without burning.
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Why a silica powder is melting but not burnt when heated?

Thank you
 
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Silica (silicon dioxide) is "burnt" silicon. You cannot burn it for the same reason you cannot burn carbon dioxide.
 
mfb said:
Silica (silicon dioxide) is "burnt" silicon. You cannot burn it for the same reason you cannot burn carbon dioxide.

What I meant as a burnt is such as the below image:

burnt bread
 
That is probably the result of a reaction between bread and oxygen.
Silica is the result of a reaction between silicon and oxygen. It does not look black, but it is similar to a burnt bread.
 
Actually burnt bread is more like effect of the carbohydrates decomposition - water leaves molecules, leaving mostly pure carbon. Silica is not similar to carbohydrates.
 
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