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The Reaction of Sulfur and Iron

HOW DOES IT WORK?

The experiment shows that a mixture of iron and sulfur represents a physical change, because no new substance with new properties is formed. The components can be separated from each other with physical methods.

Experiment 1: To study the physical changes that take place when iron filings and sulphur are mixed.
Time Allocation: 45 Min

When sulfur and iron are heated together, a new substance with new properties are formed. The components cannot be separated with physical methods. This represents a synthesis reaction.

Experiment 2: To observe the synthesis reaction between iron and sulfur.
Time Allocation: 45 Min

The iron filings and sulfur are mixed in a watch glass. Learners observe the mixture and compare the characteristics with the original elements. The magnet is used to separate the two elements.

Sulfur and iron are mixed in the crucible, but now the content is heated. The product has different physical and chemical properties as the reactants. The new compound cannot be separated with a magnet.

EXPERIMENT 1: Study the physical changes that take place when iron filings and sulphur are mixed.

Time Allocation: 45 Min

AIM:                                                                                                          

To study the physical changes that take place when iron filings and sulfur are mixed.

APPARATUS:

  • Iron filings (Fe(s))
  • Sulfur powder (S8(s))
  • Spatula
  • A magnet
  • Test Tube

METHOD:

  • Make a note of the physical appearance of iron and sulfur.
  • Mix a spatula full of iron and sulfur in the test tube.
  • Note the observations.
  • Bring a magnet close to the mixture on the outside of the test tube and run it up and down the outside.
  • Note the observations.

 

EXPERIMENT 2: Observe the synthesis reaction between iron and sulfur.

Time Allocation: 45 Min

 AIM:                                                                                                 

To observe the synthesis reaction between iron and sulfur.

MATERIALS:

  • Iron filings (Fe(s))
  • Sulphur powder (S8(s))
  • Rubber Stopper 11 x 14 x 24
  • Test Tube
  • Bar magnet
  • Bunsen burner and gas fuel cartridge
  • Test Tube Tong wire

METHOD:

  1. Use the test tube with the mixed iron and Sulphur and close with the rubber stopper.
  2. Secure the test tube In the test tube holder.
  3. Ignite the burner.
  4. Heat the mixture in the test tube over the flame.
  5. Note any changes that take place.
  6. Use tongs to remove the test tube and allow the content to cool down.
  7. Bring the magnet close to the content and note the observations.

PRECAUTIONS:

  • All chemicals and open flames must be considered as potentially dangerous.
  • Sulfur burns to form sulfur dioxide (SO2). The gas is toxic and asthmatics are particularly vulnerable.
  • Use a mineral-wool plug in the mouth of the test tube.