WU Types of Reactions 12/06

A decomposition reaction is a type of chemical reaction where one compound breaks down into two or more simpler products. Example: $$2NaHCO_3 -> Na_2CO_3 + CO_2 + H_2O$$ .

A combination reaction is a type of chemical reaction where two or more substances combine to form a single product. Example: $$2H_2 + O_2 -> 2H_2O$$ .

A single replacement reaction is a type of chemical reaction where one element replaces another element in a compound. Example: $$Zn + 2HCl -> ZnCl_2 + H_2$$ .

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: $$AgNO_3 + NaCl -> AgCl + NaNO_3$$ .

A combustion reaction is a type of chemical reaction that occurs when a substance combines with oxygen, releasing energy in the form of light or heat. Example: $$CH_4 + 2O_2 -> CO_2 + 2H_2O$$ .

Reactants are the starting substances in a chemical reaction that undergo change to form products.

Products are the substances that are formed as a result of a chemical reaction.

The Law of Conservation of Mass states that mass is neither created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction; the mass of the reactants equals the mass of the products.

A catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process.

An exothermic reaction is a chemical reaction that releases energy, usually in the form of heat. Example: combustion of fuels.