The thermite reaction, Fe2O3(s) + 2 Al(s) 2 Fe(s) + Al2O3(s), H = - 851.5 kJ/mol is one of the most exothermic reactions known.

The thermite reaction, Fe2O3(s) + 2 Al(s) → 2 Fe(s) + Al2O3(s), ΔH° = - 851.5 kJ/mol is one of the most exothermic reactions known. Because the heat released is sufficient to melt the iron product, the reaction is used to weld metal under the ocean. How much heat is released per mole of Fe2O3 produced? How does this amount of thermal energy compare with the energy released when 2 mol of protons and 2 mol of neutrons combine to form 1 mol of alpha particles?