When we put some glycerene on potasium permoganete wrapped in filter paper it catches fire. What is the reaction going on. Can we do similar experiments with other chemicals for example white phospprous?

 

Thanks

Murulidhara

If you need to ask that sort of question please don't try working with phosphorus (red or white).

The reactions are rather complex but they can be summed up as the glycerine get's oxidised by the permanganate. This reaction generates heat and the hotter the mixture gets the faster it reacts. The temperature rises rapidly until the material catches fire.

Thank u sir

 

Murulidhara