Black snake (firework)

Pharaoh snake (also Pharaohs serpent or snake Pharaoh ) denotes a cylindrical or conical joke article that generated after igniting a strong swelling " snake-like " ash. Originally contained Pharaoh snakes mercury (II ) thiocyanate, is, however because of its toxicity (and the mercury vapors generated during the combustion ) is no longer used for this purpose. The school pilot ( subject matter secondary education), a chemical test is hereby referred to, in which a foamed with carbon dioxide highly porous carbon structure is formed in a shape of a snake. The school pilot project serves as an introduction to organic chemistry and the carbon element.

The word " Pharaoh snake " is reminiscent of the biblical appearance of Moses, who has turned his staff into a snake.

Chemical Reaction

The chemical test can be carried out with powdered sugar and concentrated sulfuric acid. Other sources also use sugar, ash and methylated spirits. One source shows an experiment with Emser pastilles and methylated spirits, which is set on fire. The reaction is not dangerous and can cause severe burns if handled improperly.

In all cases is produced as a reaction product of elemental carbon, and gaseous reaction products which foam the carbon.

The experiment can be carried out with other chemicals.