Accidental Hydrogen Production from Gallium and Aluminium Oxide

In summary, aluminum and gallium are highly reactive metals, and when water is introduced, it can cause a reaction that produces hydrogen. This is similar to the well-known experiment with aluminum and mercury. It is also possible to produce hydrogen by putting a metal such as iron or zinc into hydrochloric acid.
  • #1
bioman06
2
0
Hi guys

I was looking at a website and the engineer was working with Gallium and Allaminium oxide, and by accident they put water with it and the reaction produced hydrogen.

Could anyone expand on this?

regards
Bioman
 
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  • #2
No surprise here, aluminum is very reactive. It is just almost always covered with very stable oxide, which makes it water resistant, as long as water is neutral (pH around 7). When it is acidic or basic oxide dissolves and aluminum reacts. Gallium doesn't allow oxide layer creation.

To some extent that's similar to the famous aluminum and mercury experiment, in which aluminum gets oxidized fast when small amount of mercury is put on its surface. That's why you are not allowed to carry mercury on bard of passenger planes.

This is an old news now, it hit the headlines last year.
 
  • #3
To produce Hydrogen, can I put a metal such as Ferum into Hydrochloric Acid and get Hydrogen? I think Ferum and Hydrochloric Acid will react and produce Ferum Chloride and Hydrogen.
 
  • #4
I am assuming that iron is the English equivalent of ferum.

I believe the answer to your question is, yes.

IIRC zinc is a good metal for this as well.
 

Related to Accidental Hydrogen Production from Gallium and Aluminium Oxide

1. What is accidental hydrogen production from gallium and aluminium oxide?

Accidental hydrogen production from gallium and aluminium oxide refers to the spontaneous release of hydrogen gas when gallium and aluminium oxide come into contact with water or moisture. This reaction is not intentionally caused, but can occur due to certain conditions such as high humidity, presence of impurities, or exposure to air.

2. How does the reaction between gallium and aluminium oxide produce hydrogen gas?

The reaction between gallium and aluminium oxide produces hydrogen gas through a process called hydrolysis. When water or moisture comes into contact with gallium and aluminium oxide, a chemical reaction occurs, breaking down the compound and releasing hydrogen gas as a byproduct.

3. Is accidental hydrogen production from gallium and aluminium oxide dangerous?

In most cases, accidental hydrogen production from gallium and aluminium oxide is not dangerous. The amount of hydrogen gas produced is usually small and dissipates quickly. However, if the reaction occurs in a confined space or in large quantities, it can potentially create a flammable or explosive environment and proper precautions should be taken.

4. What are the potential applications of accidental hydrogen production from gallium and aluminium oxide?

Accidental hydrogen production from gallium and aluminium oxide has potential applications in the field of alternative energy. Hydrogen gas is a clean and efficient fuel source, and this accidental reaction could potentially be harnessed and controlled for use in hydrogen-powered vehicles or other forms of energy production.

5. How can accidental hydrogen production from gallium and aluminium oxide be prevented?

To prevent accidental hydrogen production from gallium and aluminium oxide, it is important to handle these materials in a dry and controlled environment. This can include storing them in airtight containers and avoiding exposure to moisture. Additionally, using pure gallium and aluminium oxide without any impurities can also help prevent this reaction from occurring.

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