Chemistry Comes Alive!:


Nitrogen Triiodide Detonation
	Contents Sodium Iodide + Mercury(II) Chloride Like Dissolves Like Ferrofluid Ice Bomb Oxidation of Glycerin Mercury Beating Heart Nitrogen Triiodide Detonation Cadmium Nitrate + Sodium Sulfide Copper(II) Nitrate + Ammonia Sodium + Acid Denaturation of Protein Hydrolysis of t-Butyl Chloride Centrifuging Which Is Hot? Dust Explosion Thermite
A ring stand is set up with two rings, each holding a filter paper spread with nitrogen triiodide. The bottom filter paper is touched with a feather, causing an explosion that detonates the other sample of nitrogen triiodide.
Chemical Equation 2 NI₃ N₂ + 3 I₂ Think About It What observable evidence indicates that a chemical reaction has taken place? Classify the reaction shown on the video as combination, decomposition, exchange, or acid-base and give the reason for your choice. Safety/Precautions explosions, loud, irritant Nitrogen triiodide is a very unstable explosive substance when dry. It should only be handled when it is wet and only by those familiar with its properties. The explosive detonation of nitrogen triiodide can be extremely loud. Wear ear protection! Iodine vapor produced in this demonstration is an irritant to the respiratory system and eyes.
Journal of Chemical Education is a publication of the Division of Chemical Education, Inc. of the American Chemical Society.

Nitrogen Triiodide Detonation