A copper wire is heated and positioned above the surface of acetone in a beaker. The copper serves as a heterogeneous catalyst in the combustion of acetone, producing carbon dioxide and water. This exothermic reaction keeps the wire illuminated. In the absence of oxides on the copper surface, the copper emits a yellow glow in the reducing gas mixture.

(CH3)2CO (acetone)   (Cu) -->   CH2CO (ketene) + CH4 (methane)               (ΔH0 = 19.30 kcal)

(CH3)2CO + 4O2 —>  CO2 + 3H2O                                          (ΔH0 = -403.9 kcal)

CH2CO + O2 —> H2O + CO2                 

CH4 + O2 —> H2O + CO2

The role of oxygen in the reaction becomes evident when the top of the flask is covered with a heat-resistant mat: the copper quickly cools and dims. Infrared spectroscopy has revealed that the effluent gases mainly consist of carbon dioxide and water, with trace amounts of ketene.

The flickering observed on the surface of the copper wire is a result of temperature fluctuations. As the vapor contacts the surface, it cools the wire, and during combustion, it reheats the wire. The convection of air around the copper may also contribute to this phenomenon.