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Exploded Pumpkin

Acetylene gas explosion was used in the self carved pumpkin experiment.

The reaction of calcium carbide (2) with water (2) results in the production of acetylene gas (22) and calcium hydroxide (()2).

The chemical equation for the reaction is as follows:

2+22()2+22

In this reaction, calcium carbide reacts with water to produce calcium hydroxide and acetylene gas. The reaction is highly exothermic, meaning it releases a significant amount of heat.

Furthermore, if acetylene gas produced in the reaction comes in contact with air, it can undergo combustion, leading to ignition. The combustion reaction of acetylene with oxygen (2) is as follows:

222+5242+22

This combustion reaction releases a large amount of heat and produces carbon dioxide (2) and water (2) as the combustion products.

In certain industrial applications, the reaction of calcium carbide with water and subsequent ignition of acetylene is used to generate a controlled and intense flame, finding use in processes such as welding and cutting. However, it's crucial to handle acetylene with care due to its flammable nature.


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Acetylene gas explosion was used in the self carved pumpkin experiment.