Science GIFs

Logo

'Science GIFs' was one of the largest and most active science-oriented collections on the Google+ social network with over 325,000 followers at the time of its shutting down. This website serves as a backup of the content from the collection.

https://plus.google.com/collection/A2NSc

View a Random Post

Liquid sodium-potassium alloy bullets

13 May 2016

Sodium-potassium alloy (NaK) is an eutectic alloy of potassium and sodium that is usually liquid at room temperature. It is extremely reactive with water and usually requires storage in hydrocarbons or inert gases (e.g. nitrogen or argon). When exposed to air it forms a potassium superoxide coating that reacts explosively with organics.

Here, the NaK alloy has been loaded into a bullet and fired at a watermelon. Immediately after leaving the barrel, the liquid metal has already ignited and acts almost like a tracer as it travels through the air. Upon penetrating the watermelon, the sodium and potassium react with the water and explodes violently.

** Warning** : The lack of proper eye protection is extremely dangerous when firing a gun or working with explosive materials at such close range. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment!

Source: https://youtu.be/T85d7ST2yxU (BackyardScientist)

#ScienceGIF #Science #GIF #Bullet #Gun #Handgun #Explosion #Sodium #Potassium #NaK #Alloy #Reactive #Oxygen #Air #Water #Reaction #Chemistry #ChemicalReaction View Original Post on Google+

Liquid sodium-potassium alloy bullets