This experiment demonstrates how the element silicon can be extracted from sand. It also shows how flammable silane gas can be chemically generated from sand using magnesium metal.
@@TommyTechnetium I'm impressed that you were able to melt a borosilicate test tube! Would a heavier wall test tube work better or should this reaction be done in a crucible?
As methane and oxygen will combust with an ignition source and silane and oxygen combust on contact, is the ignition temperature of the silane below room temperature? Would the silane / oxygen mix ignite if both gasses were below 0°C? Would methane/oxygen ignite without a flame if the gasses were hot enough?
