Types of Chemical Reactions
What are Chemical Reactions?
Chemical reactions take place at the molecular level, when the atoms and molecules of the things you start with (reactants) turn into something new (products). All chemical reactions can be split generally into six different categories:
- Combustion
- Synthesis
- Decomposition
- Single Displacement
- Double Displacement
- Acid-Base Neutralization
Each of these reactions have unique characteristics. based on certain criteria, you should be able to determine which reaction is happening.
Combustion Reactions
Combustion reactions always include two things: oxygen as a reactant and energy (in the form of heat) as a product. In most cases their products include Carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O). These reactions often involve something visibly burning or exploding, which make them pretty cool to look at, as seen in the video to the right.
Examples:
Burning Methanol (rubbing alcohol)
CH3OH + O2 --> CO2 + 2H2O+ HEAT
Burning Napthalene:
C10H8 + 12 O2 ---> 10 CO2 + 4H2O + HEAT
Synthesis Reactions
Synthesis reactions are when two (or more) single-element molecules combine to form one large molecule. It is something like the opposite of a decomposition reaction.
Examples:
A silver spoon tarnishes. The silver reacts with sulfur in the air to make silver sulfide, the black material we call tarnish.
2Ag + S --> Ag2S
An iron bar rusts. The iron reacts with oxygen in the air to make rust.
4Fe + 3O2 --> 2Fe2O3
Decomposition Reactions
Decomposition reactions are when one large molecule decomposes or breaks apart into many parts. This can happen through natural processes (such as natural fermentation or nuclear half-life) or aided by a catalyst.
Examples:
Fermentation-Glucose (simple sugar) ferments to ethyl alcohol and carbon dioxide. The sugar in grapes or from grain ferments (with yeast as a catalyst) to make the alcohol and carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide is the gas that bubbles out of beer or champagne.
C6H12O6 --> 2C2H5OH + 2CO2
Do NOT try this at home...
Single Displacement Reactions
Displacement reactions can be viewed as people going to a party. A single displacement reaction is like when a guy and a girl come to a party together, and then one of them leaves with another person.
Almost all acid-metal reactions are single displacement reactions.
Examples:
Silver nitrate and Zinc make Silver and Zinc nitrate
2AgNO3 + Zn --> 2Ag+ Zn(NO3)2
Aluminum and Hydrochloric Acid make Aluminum Chloride and Hydrogen gas (See reaction in video)
2Al + 6HCl --> 2AlCl3 + 3H2
Double Displacement Reactions
Double Displacement reactions are like a "swinger" party. Two pairs of elements come to the party attached to each other, but both end up with someone else from the other couple.
Examples:
Iron Oxide (rust) and Hydrochloric Acid make Iron chloride and water
Fe2O3 + 6HCl --> 2FeCl3 + 3H2O
Acid-Base Neutralization Reactions
Acid-base reactions are generally a special type of double displacement reaction, where water is produced.
Examples:
An antacid (calcium hydroxide) neutralizes stomach acid (hydrochloric acid).
Ca(OH)2 + 2HCl --> CaCl2 + 2H2O
Vinegar and Baking Soda
CH3COOH + NaHCO3 --> H2O + NaOCOCH3 + CO2 (note that this looks like a combustion reaction because it has water and carbon dioxide as products, but it does not produce heat)
How can I tell which one?
I have created a handy-dandy flowchart located below for just such a question. I made it myself, and I give anyone permission to use it for whatever purpose you choose.
Comments
people are here on January 16, 2020:
needed more info but other wise really good
hsasuisahaioc on October 19, 2018:
did not enjoy
slc334 from Canada on February 15, 2011:
This is really well written, thanks for the useful advice.
dosters (author) from Chicago on November 01, 2010:
Thanks Bayoulady! I tried to make something people could actually use and take with them if they pleased.
bayoulady from Northern Louisiana,USA on October 31, 2010:
Great for any student needing this info! Rate up and USEFUL!