<P> The reaction, also called the Goldschmidt process, is used for thermite welding, often used to join rail tracks . Thermites have also been used in metal refining, demolition munitions, and in incendiary weapons . Some thermite - like mixtures are used as pyrotechnic initiators in fireworks . </P> <P> In the following example, elemental aluminium reduces the oxide of another metal, in this common example iron oxide, because aluminium forms stronger, more stable, bonds with oxygen than iron: </P> <Dl> <Dd> Fe O + 2 Al → 2 Fe + Al O </Dd> </Dl> <Dd> Fe O + 2 Al → 2 Fe + Al O </Dd>

Thermite used in thermit welding is a mixture of