How Does Aluminum Carbide React With Water?

Aluminum carbide (Al4C3) reacts with water to produce methane gas (CH4) and aluminum hydroxide (Al(OH)3) according to the following chemical equation:

Al4C3 + 12 H2O → 4 Al(OH)3 + 3 CH4

In this reaction, water molecules split into hydrogen (H+) and hydroxide (OH-) ions. The aluminum carbide then reacts with the hydrogen ions to form aluminum hydroxide and release methane gas.

The reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases heat, and can be dangerous if not properly controlled. Methane gas is flammable and can ignite in the presence of a spark or flame, and the reaction produces a lot of heat that can cause burns or start a fire.

Therefore, it is important to handle aluminum carbide with care and only perform the reaction under controlled conditions, such as in a laboratory setting with proper safety equipment and procedures.