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different types of chemical reactions and the definition

A chemical reaction is a process that is usually characterized by a chemical change in which the starting materials (reactants) are different from the products. Chemical reactions tend to involve the motion of electrons, leading to the formation and breaking of chemical bonds .There are several different types of chemical reactions and more than one way of classifying them. Here are some common reaction types: Direct Combination or Synthesis Reaction
In a synthesis reaction two or more chemical species combine to form a more complex product.
  • A + B ? AB

  • Chemical Decomposition or Analysis Reaction
    In a decomposition reaction a compound is broken into smaller chemical species.

    AB ? A + B

    The electrolysis of water into oxygen and hydrogen gas is an example of a decomposition reaction:

    2 H2O ? 2 H2 + O2

  • Single Displacement or Substitution Reaction
    A substitution or single displacement reaction is characterized by one element being displaced from a compound by another element.

    A + BC ? AC + B


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