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

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the phenomenon of silica powder melting when heated, while not exhibiting characteristics typically associated with burning. Participants explore the chemical nature of silica and its comparison to other materials, particularly in the context of combustion and decomposition.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions why silica powder melts but does not burn when heated.
  • Another participant asserts that silica is "burnt" silicon and draws a parallel to carbon dioxide, suggesting that it cannot be burned in the same way.
  • A subsequent reply attempts to clarify the concept of "burnt" by referencing an image of burnt bread, indicating a different understanding of the term.
  • Another participant proposes that the appearance of burnt bread results from a reaction between carbohydrates and oxygen, contrasting this with the nature of silica.
  • One participant challenges the comparison between burnt bread and silica, stating that silica does not resemble carbohydrates and thus should not be likened to the decomposition process of bread.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the nature of burning and the comparison between silica and other materials like carbohydrates. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing perspectives on the chemical processes involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully defined what is meant by "burnt" in this context, leading to ambiguity in the discussion. The comparison between silica and burnt bread involves assumptions about chemical reactions that are not fully explored.

mymachine
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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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