What in hand warmers actually produces the heat?

Question

knowing what i know about air activated hand warmers, i know that the heat is caused by a chemical reaction between the oxygen and iron, i think. so my first question would be is this correct? i know the other ingredients in the hand warmer play a part to the chemical reaction as well, but i just need to know what produces the actual heat. then, if i am correct, would reducing the amount of iron (or whatever substance is producing the actual heat) in a hand warmer, reduce the amount of heat given off?

Answer 1

yep, you got it, it's the combustion of iron making rust that makes the heat

Answer 2

Yes, it's the oxidation of iron to oxygen that does it.

Reducing the amount of iron, reducing exposure to oxygen - either of these will reduce the heat given off.  

Answer 3

Sounds like you know your stuff...

Answer 4

Yes, it's a process of oxidation, you are correct.  i think it would follow that reducing the iron would reduce the heat.  makes sense to me.  if this is a homework question, i'd do more research because i'm not 100% sure.