Chemical reactions

A chemical reaction is a type of reaction that changes the molecular makeup of a substance unlike a physical reaction. There are several types of chemical reactions.

The first type of reaction is a synthesis reaction. In a synthesis reaction, it is two substances coming together to make one.


The next type of reaction is a decomposition reaction. A decomposition reaction is the opposite of a synthesis reation. In a decomposition reaction one substance breaks apart into two different elements.



The third type of reaction is a single-replacement reaction. In a single-replacement reaction you use the activity series of metals. You use this to determine whether the single substance is strong enough to replace the other metal in the reaction. The activity series is found in the reference sheet. If the single metal is not strong enough to take over, there is no reaction.

 

Another type of reaction is a double-replacement reaction. To see if a double replacement reaction can occur you must use the solubility rules that are found in the reference sheet. If by the rules both reactants are soluble, the reaction will occur. If one of the reactants are not soluble, no reaction will occur. If a product is insoluble it is a precipitant.

The last type of reaction is a combustion reaction. Combustion reactions are ALWAYS the same. they are a hydrocarbon + an oxygen and they make water and carbon dioxide.