Chemical Reactions and Equations

Flashcards to aid in understanding key concepts and definitions related to chemical reactions and equations.

Change

A process in which the final state of a substance differs from its initial state.

Physical Change

A change in which the shape, size, or physical state is altered without changing the composition (e.g., melting of chocolate or ice).

Chemical Change

A change that alters the composition of a substance (e.g., rusting of iron or burning of wood).

Chemical Reaction

A process in which substances undergo transformation resulting in the formation of new substances with different chemical properties.

Chemical Equation

A representation of a chemical reaction using symbols and formulas to show the reactants and products.

Balanced Chemical Equation

An equation in which the number of atoms of each element is equal on both sides, following the law of conservation of mass.

Endothermic Reaction

A chemical reaction in which energy is absorbed, resulting in a decrease in temperature.

Exothermic Reaction

A chemical reaction that releases energy, resulting in an increase in temperature.

Precipitate

An insoluble solid that settles out from a solution after a chemical reaction.

Combination Reaction

A chemical reaction where two or more substances combine to form a single new substance (e.g., magnesium burns in oxygen to form magnesium oxide).

Decomposition Reaction

A reaction in which a single compound breaks down into two or more elements or simpler compounds.

Displacement Reaction

A reaction in which a more reactive element displaces a less reactive element from its compound.

Double Displacement Reaction

A reaction where two compounds exchange ions to form two new compounds.

Oxidation

The addition of oxygen or the removal of hydrogen from a substance.

Reduction

The addition of hydrogen or the removal of oxygen from a substance.

Corrosion

The gradual destruction of materials, usually metals, by chemical and electrochemical reaction with their environment.

Rancidity

The process where fats and oils oxidize, leading to unpleasant odors and tastes in food.

Catalyst

A substance that speeds up a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process.