Synthesis and Decomposition Reactions

Question 1

synthesis reaction

Answer 1

• 2 or more reactants combined to create a single product
• A + B ~AB

Question 2

general rules for predicting products (synthesis)

Answer 2

1) two different elements form a binary compound
2) element and compound form a new compound
3) two different compounds for a new compound

Question 3

decomposition reactions

Answer 3

• a reactant compound breaks down to form two or more products
• Opposite of synthesis
• Often require heat or catalyst to occur
  -AB ~ A+B

Question 4

General rules for predicting products (decomposition)

Answer 4

1) binary compound equals two elements
2) hydrate equals ionic compound plus water
3) metal carbonate equals metal oxide plus carbon dioxide
4) metal hydroxide equals metal oxide plus water