Balancing and Reaction Types

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What is a synthesis reaction?

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A synthesis reaction is a type of chemical reaction where two or more reactants combine to form a single product. Example: K + F2 → KF.

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What is a combustion reaction?

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A combustion reaction is a type of chemical reaction that occurs when a substance combines with oxygen, releasing energy in the form of light and heat. Example: C2H6 + O2 → CO2 + H2O.

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What is a decomposition reaction?

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A decomposition reaction is a type of chemical reaction where one reactant breaks down into two or more products. Example: 2H2O → 2H2 + O2.

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What is a single replacement reaction?

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A single replacement reaction is a type of chemical reaction where one element replaces another in a compound. Example: Zn + CuSO4 → ZnSO4 + Cu.

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What is a double replacement reaction?

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A double replacement reaction is a type of chemical reaction where the anions and cations of two different compounds switch places, forming two new compounds. Example: AgNO3 + NaCl → AgCl + NaNO3.

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What is a subscript in a chemical equation?

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A subscript is a small number written after an element symbol in a chemical formula that indicates the number of atoms of that element in a molecule. Example: In H2O, the '2' is a subscript indicating there are two hydrogen atoms.

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What is a coefficient in a chemical equation?

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A coefficient is a number placed in front of a chemical formula in a reaction to indicate how many molecules or moles of that substance are involved. Example: In 2H2 + O2 → 2H2O, '2' is a coefficient.

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What is the law of conservation of mass?

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The law of conservation of mass states that mass is neither created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction; the total mass of reactants equals the total mass of products.

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What is the difference between an endothermic and exothermic reaction?

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An endothermic reaction absorbs energy (heat) from its surroundings, while an exothermic reaction releases energy (heat) to its surroundings.

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What is an acid-base reaction?

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An acid-base reaction is a type of chemical reaction that occurs between an acid and a base, resulting in the formation of water and a salt. Example: HCl + NaOH → NaCl + H2O.