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Oxidation of Glycerine by Potassium Permanganate


A few drops of glycerin are placed into a hollow in a pile of potassium permanganate. Potassium permanganate is a strong oxidizing agent and glycerin is an easily oxidized substance. Consequently, a redox type reaction is expected between these two substances. An exothermic reaction does occur, with the glycerin boiling, giving off smoke and eventually producing a flame that spreads around the pile of potassium permanganate. Eventually all the glycerin is consumed by the permanganate.


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