Balancing Equations and Reaction Types

Front

What is a balanced chemical equation?

Back

A balanced chemical equation has equal numbers of each type of atom on both sides of the equation, reflecting the conservation of mass.

Front

What is the law of conservation of mass?

Back

The law of conservation of mass states that mass is neither created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction.

Front

What is a synthesis reaction?

Back

A synthesis reaction is a type of chemical reaction where two or more reactants combine to form a single product.

Front

What is a decomposition reaction?

Back

A decomposition reaction is a type of chemical reaction where a single compound breaks down into two or more simpler products.

Front

What is a single displacement reaction?

Back

A single displacement reaction is a type of chemical reaction where one element replaces another element in a compound.

Front

What is a double displacement reaction?

Back

A double displacement reaction is a type of chemical reaction where two compounds exchange ions or bonds to form two new compounds.

Front

How do you identify a synthesis reaction?

Back

A synthesis reaction can be identified by the general form A + B → AB, where two reactants combine to form one product.

Front

How do you identify a decomposition reaction?

Back

A decomposition reaction can be identified by the general form AB → A + B, where one reactant breaks down into two or more products.

Front

What is the general form of a single displacement reaction?

Back

The general form of a single displacement reaction is A + BC → AC + B, where A replaces B in the compound.

Front

What is the general form of a double displacement reaction?

Back

The general form of a double displacement reaction is AB + CD → AD + CB, where the ions of two compounds exchange places.