Chemical Reactions and Their Types

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to various types of chemical reactions and their characteristics.

Synthesis Reaction

A reaction where two or more elements or compounds combine to form one or more complex compounds, represented as A + B
→ C.

Decomposition Reaction

A reaction that involves the breakdown of one compound to form elements or simpler compounds, represented as AB
→ A + B.

Single Replacement Reaction

A reaction in which one element trades places with a different element in a compound, represented as A + BC
→ AC + B.

Double Replacement Reaction

A reaction where one element trades places with a different element in two compounds, represented as AB + CD
→ AD + CB.

Hydrolysis

A reaction involving water that is used to split a molecule, often in the context of double replacement reactions.

Hydration

The process of adding water to a double bond in the presence of H+ to form an alcohol.

Dehydration

The reverse of hydration; a decomposition reaction where an alcohol loses water in the presence of H+ to form an alkene.

Reduction

A process characterized by the gain of one or more electrons.

Oxidation

A process characterized by the loss of one or more electrons.

Combustion Reaction

An oxidation reaction that produces carbon dioxide and water when organic molecules react.

Reactant

A substance that takes part in and undergoes change during a reaction.

Product

A substance formed as a result of a chemical reaction.

Oxidizing Agent

A substance that causes another substance to be oxidized, and is itself reduced.

Reducing Agent

A substance that causes another substance to be reduced, and is itself oxidized.