Distinguishing Red Glow of Burning vs Reaction

In summary, a burning reaction is a type of combustion that requires oxygen and produces heat and light, while a chemical reaction can occur with or without oxygen and results in new substances. The presence of oxygen and flames or smoke can distinguish between the two. The red glow in a burning reaction is caused by excited atoms or molecules emitting light, and other colors are possible depending on the temperature and elements present. While the color of a burning reaction can sometimes help identify a substance, further analysis may be necessary.
  • #1
lwymarie
90
1
how to distinguish between the red glow of burning and the red glow of reaction?
 
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  • #2
touch it...wait, no...bad idea ! :wink:

How about a thermometer ?
 
  • #3


The red glow of burning and the red glow of reaction can be differentiated by closely observing the source of the glow and the surrounding conditions.

Firstly, the red glow of burning is typically associated with combustion or fire. This type of glow is usually seen in materials that are actively burning, such as a lit candle or a wood fire. The heat from the burning process causes the material to emit light in the visible spectrum, giving off a red glow. On the other hand, the red glow of reaction is a result of a chemical reaction between two or more substances. This reaction may not necessarily involve burning or the production of heat.

Secondly, the intensity and color of the red glow can also provide clues to distinguish between burning and reaction. The red glow of burning tends to be bright and vibrant, with a distinct orange or yellow hue. This is because burning involves the release of a large amount of energy, which results in a high temperature and a more intense glow. In contrast, the red glow of reaction may be less intense and have a slightly different shade of red, depending on the specific chemicals involved in the reaction. It may also be accompanied by other colors, indicating a more complex reaction.

Another factor to consider is the presence of smoke or flames. The red glow of burning is often accompanied by smoke and flames, while the red glow of reaction may not produce these visible signs. This is because burning involves the consumption of oxygen and the production of carbon dioxide and other byproducts, which can be seen as smoke and flames. In contrast, the red glow of reaction may occur in a closed system or without the presence of oxygen, resulting in a lack of smoke or flames.

In summary, to distinguish between the red glow of burning and the red glow of reaction, one should consider the source of the glow, the intensity and color, and the presence of smoke or flames. By carefully observing these factors, one can determine whether the red glow is a result of burning or a chemical reaction.
 

What is the difference between a burning reaction and a chemical reaction?

A burning reaction refers to the process of combustion, where a substance reacts with oxygen to produce heat and light. A chemical reaction, on the other hand, refers to any process in which one or more substances are changed into new substances with different properties.

How can I tell if a substance is burning or undergoing a chemical reaction?

The main difference between a burning reaction and a chemical reaction is the presence of oxygen. Burning reactions require oxygen to occur, while chemical reactions may or may not involve oxygen. The presence of flames or smoke is also a clear indication of a burning reaction.

What causes the red glow in a burning reaction?

The red glow in a burning reaction is caused by the emission of light from excited atoms or molecules. As the substance burns, it releases energy in the form of heat and light. The heat causes the atoms or molecules to become excited, and when they return to their ground state, they release energy in the form of light, including red light.

Can a burning reaction produce other colors besides red?

Yes, a burning reaction can produce a variety of colors depending on the temperature and the elements present in the substance. For example, a copper fire will produce a blue-green flame, while a sodium fire will produce a bright yellow flame. The color of the flame can also change as the burning reaction progresses.

Is it possible to determine the type of substance based on the color of the burning reaction?

In some cases, yes. Certain elements and compounds have distinct colors when burned, which can help identify the substance. For example, burning copper will produce a blue-green flame, while burning iron will produce a red-orange flame. However, it is not always possible to identify a substance solely based on the color of the burning reaction, and further analysis may be necessary.

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