Smash! Bang! Boom!

When two 1-pound, 2-inch diameter, chrome steel spheres are smashed together, enough heat is generated at the point of contact to burn a hole in a piece of ordinary paper! This amazing demonstration dramatically illustrates the conversion of mechanical energy into heat energy. Although there are no flames, a charred hole appears along with the odor of burnt paper. Safety Notes: Safety glasses must be worn whenever two objects are smashed together... especially large steel balls!

How does it work?

A Texas-based chemistry professor recently made a “smashing” discovery when he wrapped two rusty, high-density, steel spheres with aluminum foil. Smashing the two together resulted in the release of heat energy along with a surprising bang and spark. This reaction between the rust (iron oxide) and the aluminum graphically illustrated the chemistry of the classic thermite reaction.