Types of Reactions
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Core Concept
Ionic compounds are composed of a cation and anion. The cation is typically a metal, and the anion is usually a nonmetal or a polyatomic ion (a group of atoms with an overall charge). If the compound contains a metal it is a good sign that it can be considered an ionic compound.
Practice Tips
Memorize Common Ions: Focus on learning the common polyatomic ions, charges, and patterns.
Roman Numerals for Transition Metals: Practice associating transition metals with their possible charges.
Cross-Method for Formulas: To determine the correct formula, use the “criss-cross” method to balance charges between cations and anions.
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There are 5 major types of reactions that you might encounter.
Combination
Decomposition
Combustion
Single Replacement
Double Displacement
| Type | Format | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Combination (Synthesis) | $A + B \rightarrow AB$ | $2Mg(s) + O_2(g) \rightarrow 2MgO(s)$ |
| Decomposition | $AB \rightarrow A + B$ | $2H_2O(l) \xrightarrow{\text{electricity}} 2H_2(g) + O_2(g)$ |
| Combustion | Fuel $+ O_2 \rightarrow$ Oxides | $CH_4(g) + 2O_2(g) \rightarrow CO_2(g) + 2H_2O(g)$ |
| Single Replacement (Substitution) | $A + BC \rightarrow AC + B$ | $Zn(s) + CuSO_4(aq) \rightarrow ZnSO_4(aq) + Cu(s)$ |
| Double Displacement (Metathesis) | $AB + CD \rightarrow AD + CB$ | $AgNO_3(aq) + NaCl(aq) \rightarrow AgCl(s) + NaNO_3(aq)$ |