Instagram creator @electron_impressions has ignited curiosity with a mesmerising science clip showing a piece of lithium metal burning atop a copper penny. The video, which has drawn over 611,000 views, captures the moment lithium combusts and begins forming dendritic oxide growths—delicate, tree-like structures that emerge as the metal converts into lithium oxide.

The reaction is not only visually striking but also chemically fascinating. Lithium, a highly reactive alkali metal, burns with a bright flame and interacts with oxygen to form lithium oxide. The copper penny acts as a stable platform, contrasting the silvery metal’s transformation with its own unreactive surface.

This is a piece of lithium metal set on fire and burning on a copper penny. Watch as it develops dendritic oxide growths as it burns and converts into Lithium Oxide.