Module 3: THE INTERACTIONS OF MATTER

Lesson no. 3: Chemical Reactions and Equations

Learning Objectives
1. Describe the characteristics of a chemical reaction.
2. Write balanced chemical equation.
3. Classify chemical reactions.
Time Frame week 7- 9
Introduction

We have seen in the previous lessons that burning, chemical digestion, combustion,
cooking, decomposition and rusting are chemical changes or reactions. Chemical reactions,
whether simple or complex, desirable or undesirable, are constantly taking place inside and all
around us. A factual understanding could lead us to better appreciation and utilization of chemical
reactions. So now that you are familiar with the names, formula, structures, characteristics and
significance of elements and compounds, we focus on how to write, balance and classify chemical
reactions.
Name: __________________________ Year and Section: ____________
Activity
Discovery Learning (Read the instructions carefully and do the tasks.)
1. Place a piece of steel wool in the bottom of a clear plastic cup.
2. Pour equal amounts of water into each of two shallow bowls.
3. Invert the plastic cup with the steel wool into one of the bowls. Invert an empty plastic
cup into the other bowl.
4. Observe the cups every day for 1 week. (3 points/day x 7 = 21 points)
 What changes did you observe in the steel wool?
 What changes did you observe in the water level in the two bowls?

Bowl no. 1 with cup with steel wool Bowl no. 2

Day
Steel wool Level of water Level of water
1

Proof: picture or video of you doing the discovery learning activity. 4 points
Analysis

1. How can you explain your observations?5 points

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2. How do you define chemical change or reaction? What other example of chemical reactions can
you give at least 5? 5 points
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Score: 35 points

Abstraction
Chemical Reaction is a change process at the electronic level whereby the atoms of the reacting
elements or compounds are bonded together or rearranged via the formation or breakage of
chemical bonds resulting into the formation of new compounds or the release of elements from
their compounds.

The Chemical Reaction Equation

A chemical reaction can be described in a statement, word equation or a chemical reaction

equation.
 Reaction statement: “Hydrogen gas reacts with oxygen gas to produce water vapor”.
 Word equation: hydrogen gas + oxygen gas water vapor
 Chemical reaction equation: 2H2 (g) + O2 (g) 2H2O(g)
Reactants are the raw materials or initial substances involved in chemical reaction.
Products are the resulting substances from chemical reaction.
The general format for writing chemical reaction equation is:
One or more reactants one or more products
A plus sign separates reactants from one another or products from one another.
A chemical reaction equation contains the formula of one or more reactants followed by the sign
for word yields or results and followed by the formula of one or more products.
Symbols Used in Writing Chemical Reaction Equations
Symbol Meaning or Use
+ Used to separate one reactant from another reactant or a product from another
product
Represents the word “yields” or “produces” or “results”; separates reactants from
products
For reversible reactions, used in place of .
Indicates that heat is applied to the reaction. The temperature or pressure at
or heat which he reaction is made to occur may also be indicated above or below.

Fe A symbol written above or below indicates that, that substance is used as the
reaction catalyst to hasten the reaction. For ex. Fe is used here as catalyst.

(s), (l), (g), (aq) These are physical states symbols for solid, liquid, gas and aqueous( it is in a
solution of which water is a solvent.)

 Writing the (Skeleton) Chemical Reaction Equation

1. Determine the correct formula of the reactant and products. If there are two or more
reactants, use a plus sign to separate each reactant from one another.
2. Write the appropriate symbol for “yields or produces or results”.
3. Write the correct formula for the products. If there are two or more products, use a plus
sign to separate each product from one another.
For example; the (skeleton) chemical reaction equation for the reaction of hydrogen gas
with oxygen gas to form an octet compound water is:
H2(g) + O2(g) H2 O(g)
Since such is a reversible reaction, you instead write;
H2(g) + O2(g) H2 O(g)
 4. Indicate the reaction conditions as; use of catalyst by writing he symbol above or below
the arrow of the reaction equation, heat of the reaction and physical states of the reactants
and products. (Catalyst is a substance that speed up or hasten the rate of reaction but does
not participate I the reaction.)
The reaction equation below shows the reaction conditions; the reaction of nitrogen gas with
hydrogen gas using iron as catalyst at 200Cto form ammonia gas and release of heat.

N2(g)+ H2(g) Fe, 20 C

NH3(g) + 92.38J

For reactions of ionic compounds in solutions, we may write the net ionic equation showing
only the ions that participate to form a new substance.
For example, when HCl(aq) and NaOH react, NaCl(aq)+ H2O;
Complete equation: HCl(aq)+ NaOH(aq) NaCl(aq)+ H2O
Net ionic equation: Cl (aq) + Na (aq)
- +
NaCl
Note: The sample chemical reaction equations above are still incomplete, we have to check
whether or not they are balanced.

 Balancing the (Skeleton) Chemical Reaction Equation

In chemical reaction equations, the number of atoms of each element in the reactants must
be the same as the number of atoms of each element in the products. This is in accordance
with the Law of Conservation of Mass which says that atoms cannot be created or
destroyed, they are simply rearranged.
A chemical reaction equation is balanced if the number of atoms of an element in the
reactant side exactly equal the number of atoms of the same element on the product
side.
The balanced chemical reaction equation for the chemical reaction of hydrogen gas with
oxygen gas to form an octet compound water is:
2H2(g) + O2(g) 2H2 O(g)
Number of atoms H: 2x2=4 2 x 2 = 4; H is balanced
O: 1x2=2 2 x 1 = 2; O is balanced
Mass (see PTE): 2(2)(1.01) + 2 (16) 2(2)(1.01) + (2)(16)
4.04 + 32 4.04 + 32
36.04 = 36.04; which is in accordance
with the Law of Conservation of Mass.
How do we balance chemical reaction equation?
1. Count the number of atoms of each element in the reactants and in the product. Any
polyatomic ions appearing unchanged on both sides of the equation is counted as a single unit
ex. SO4-2. Never change any chemical formula subscript. Ex. H2O, 2 is the subscript of H. If
you do so, you have changed the chemical or substance.

2. Change the number of molecules that react or are produced using a whole – number coefficient
(the lowest possible ratio) placed before the chemical formula. We do this one element at a
time, going from one side of the reaction to the other, changing the number of molecules of a
substance until all elements have the same number of atoms on each side.
3. Balance first the elements that appear only once on each side of the equation.
 Begin by giving coefficient 1 to the compound with complicated formula,
 Balance oxygen (O) last.
  If an element such as hydrogen(H), occurs more than once in the reactant or product side,
get the sum of the atoms of that element in the respective side of the reaction.
 Check each atom or polyatomic ion to be sure that the chemical reaction equation is
balanced.

4. The law of conservation of matter has been satisfied. When the reactants and products of a
chemical equation have the same number of atoms of all elements present, we say that an
equation is balanced. All proper chemical equations are balanced. If a substance does not
have a coefficient written in front of it, it is assumed to be 1. Also, the convention is to use all
whole numbers when balancing chemical equations. This sometimes makes us do a bit more
“back and forth” work when balancing a chemical equation.

EXAMPLE 1
Write and balance the chemical reaction equation for each given chemical reaction.

1. Hydrogen and chlorine react to make HCl.

Solution
a. Let us start by simply writing a chemical reaction equation by using the correct
formulas and symbols of the substances, remembering that both elemental hydrogen
and chlorine in the free state are diatomic; Hydrogen = H 2 and Chlorine = Cl2

H2 + Cl2 → HCl

b. Then we balance by writing the appropriate coefficients. We count first the number of
atoms of each element on the reactant side. Then we do the same on the product
side. Tabulate our counting. Note: coefficient x total subscript
Element/polyatomic ion In the reactant In the product Result
side side

H 1x2=2 1x2=2 balanced

Cl 1x2=2 1x2=2 balanced

There are two hydrogen atoms and two chlorine atoms in the reactants and one of
each atom in the product. We can fix this by including the coefficient 2 on the product
side:

H2 + Cl2 → 2HCl

Now there are two hydrogen atoms and two chlorine atoms on both sides of the
chemical equation, so it is balanced.

2. Ethane, C2H6, reacts with oxygen to make carbon dioxide and water.

a. Start by writing the chemical equation by using the correct formulas and symbols of
the substances, remembering that both elemental oxygen in the free state is
diatomic; ethane = C2H6; oxygen = O2

C2H6 + O2 → CO2 + H2O
 b. Then we balance by writing the appropriate coefficients. We count first the number of
atoms of each element on the reactant side. Then we do the same on the product
side. Tabulate our counting. Note: coefficient x total subscript
Element/ In the reactant In the product side Result
polyatomic ion side

C 2x2=4 4x1=4 balanced

H 2 x 6 = 12 6 x 2 = 12 balanced
O 7 x 2 = 14 (4 x 2) + (6 x 1) = 14 balanced
We have two carbon atoms on the left, so we need two carbon dioxide molecules on
the product side, so that each side has two carbon atoms; that element is balanced.
We have six hydrogen atoms in the reactants, so we need six hydrogen atoms in the
products. We can get this by having three water molecules:

C2H6 + O2 → 2CO2 + 3H2O

Now we have seven oxygen atoms in the products (four from the CO 2 and three from
the H2O). That means we need seven oxygen atoms in the reactants. However,
because oxygen is a diatomic molecule, we can only get an even number of oxygen
atoms at a time. We can achieve this by multiplying the other coefficients by 2 except
oxygen on the reactant side resulting the equation:

2C2H6 + O2 → 4CO2 + 6H2O

By putting coefficient 2 on ethane on the reactant side, and multiplying the coefficients
of carbon dioxide and water we don’t unbalance the other elements, and we now get
an even number of oxygen atoms in the product—14. We can get 14 oxygen atoms
on the reactant side by having 7 oxygen molecules:

2C2H6 + 7O2 → 4CO2 + 6H2O

As a check, recount everything to determine that each side has the same number of
atoms of each element. This chemical equation is now balanced.
Test Yourself
Write and balance the chemical equation that represents nitrogen and hydrogen reacting to
produce ammonia, NH3. Show how to get the answer.
Answer
N2 + 3H2 → 2NH3

Note: Many chemical equations also include phase labels for the substances: (s) for solid, (ℓ) for
liquid, (g) for gas, and (aq) for aqueous (i.e., dissolved in water). Special conditions, such as
temperature, may also be listed above the arrow. For example,

2NaHCO3(s) −→−200°C Na2CO3(s)+CO2(g)+H2O(ℓ)

KEY TAKEAWAYS

 A chemical reaction equation is a concise description of a chemical reaction.

 Proper chemical equations are balanced.
Name: ____________________________________ Year and Section: ________________

CHEMICAL REACTION EQUATION WORKSHEET

1. From the statement “nitrogen and hydrogen react to produce ammonia”;
a. Identify the reactants and the products. 2 pts
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b. Write and balance the chemical reaction equation described by the statement in no. 1. 3 pts.
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2. From the statement “sodium metal reacts with water to produce sodium hydroxide and
hydrogen”;
a. Identify the reactants and the products. 2 pts
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b. Write and balance the chemical reaction equation described by the statement in no. 2. 3 pts.
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3. From the statement “magnesium hydroxide reacts with nitric acid to produce magnesium
nitrate and water”;
a. Identify the reactants and the products. 2 pts
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b. Write and balance the chemical reaction equation described by the statement in no. 3. 3 pts.
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4. From the statement “propane reacts with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water”;
a. Identify the reactants and the products. 2 pts
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b. Write and balance the chemical reaction equation described by the statement in no. 4. 3 pts.
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Note: nos. 5 to 10 is 3 pts./no.
5. Balance by writing the correct coefficient before the formula: ___NaClO 3 → ___NaCl + ___O2
6. Balance by writing the correct coefficient before the formula: ___N 2 + ___H2 → ___N2H4
7. Balance by writing the correct coefficient before the formula: ___Al + ___O2 → ___Al2O3
8. Balance by writing the correct coefficient before the formula:
___C2H4 + ___O2 → ___CO2 + ___H2O
9. Write a balanced chemical reaction equation for the chemical reaction in which sodium and
oxygen combine to form sodium oxide.
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10. Write the balanced chemical reaction equation for the reaction in which aluminum reacts with
oxygen to produce aluminum oxide.
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11. How are chemical reactions described? 2 pts.
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Total Score: 40 points

General Classification of Chemical Reactions

 Combustions in Oxygen gas

A combustion reaction is defined as a reaction whereby an element or a compound reacts with

oxygen gas. Combustion reactions are constantly taking place in and around us.

 Cellular respiration is actually a highly controlled “combustion” in oxygen gas reaction

constantly taking place in every aerobic living cell of an organism as shown in chemical
reaction equation; 2C6H12O11 + O2 12CO2+ 12H2O

Strictly speaking, combustion is the type of rapid exothermic oxidation that releases energy in the
form of heat and light or flame. Here, we focus on the complete combustion in O 2 gas.

 The predicted products of the complete combustion-in-oxygen gas reactions by

hydrocarbons and other organic compounds are as follows;

 If the compound burned contains C and H, CO2 and H2O are the products, with reactants
called fuels, like;

Combustion of methane; CH4 + 2O2 → CO2 + 2H2O

Kerosene can be approximated with the formula C12H26, and its combustion equation is

2C12H26 + 37O2 → 24CO2 + 26H2O

One common fuel is ethanol, C2H5OH, whose combustion equation is

C2H5OH + 3O2 → 2CO2 + 3H2O

 If the compound burned contains S, SO2 is a product

Solid sulfur burns in oxygen gas, sulfur dioxide or trioxide may result;

S(s)+ O2(g) SO2(g) or S(s) + O2(g) SO3 (g)

 If the compound burned contains N, N2(g) is a product

If nitrogen is present in the original fuel, it is converted to N 2, not to a nitrogen-oxygen compound.

Thus, for the combustion of the fuel dinitroethylene, whose formula is C 2H2N2O4, we have

2C2H2N2O4 + O2 → 4CO2 + 2H2O + 2N2

 Combustion/burning of metals in O2(g) results in the oxides of the particular metals such as;
magnesium is burned to produce magnesium oxide.

2Mg(s) + O2 2 MgO(s)

 Combination or Composition or Synthesis Reaction

A composition reaction (sometimes also called a combination reaction or a synthesis reaction)

produces a single substance from multiple reactants. A single substance as a product is the key
characteristic of the composition reaction. There may be a coefficient other than one for the
substance, but if the reaction has only a single substance as a product, it can be called a
composition reaction. Generally, the combination reaction can be described;

A+B AB; where, with few exceptions,

1) For ionic compound AB, A is a cation or metal element and B is an ion or non-
metal element.
2) For covalent compound AB, A is the less electronegative non-metal and B is the
more electronegative non-metal.

In the reaction, 2H2(g) + O2(g) → 2H2O(ℓ) water is produced from hydrogen and oxygen. Although
there are two molecules of water being produced, there is only one substance—water—as a
product. So this is a composition reaction.

Ex. 2Na + Cl2 2 NaCl an ionic compound.

 Decomposition Reaction

A decomposition reaction starts from a single compound and broken down into two or more
products. One compound as a reactant and more than one substance as the products is the key
characteristic of a decomposition reaction. Generally, the combination reaction can be described;

AB A+B

For example, in the decomposition of sodium hydrogen carbonate (also known as sodium
bicarbonate), 2NaHCO3(s) → Na2CO3(s) + CO2(g) + H2O(ℓ), sodium carbonate, carbon dioxide,
and water are produced from the single substance sodium hydrogen carbonate.

Decomposition reaction occurs in oxides such as;

Fe2O3(s) Fe(s)+O2; oxide of iron can be reduced with heated C.

CuCO3 CuO + CO2(g); carbonate of copper can be decomposed to metallic oxide with heat.

 Most decomposition reactions require energy to start like decomposition of wastes should
ideally be speeded up.
 Extremely rapid decomposition reactions that produce gaseous products and heat are often
the cause of explosions. Ex. Dynamite;

4C3H5N3O9(l) 6N2(g) + 12CO2(g)+10H2O(g) + O2(g)

Composition and decomposition reactions are difficult to predict; however, they should be easy to
recognize.

EXAMPLES
Identify each chemical reaction equation as a composition reaction, a decomposition
reaction, or neither.

1. Fe2O3 + 3SO3 → Fe2(SO4)3

 In this equation, two substances combine to make a single substance. This is a

composition reaction.
2. NaCl + AgNO3 → AgCl + NaNO3

 Two different substances react to make two new substances. This does not fit the
definition of either a composition reaction or a decomposition reaction, so it is
neither.

3. (NH4)2Cr2O7 → Cr2O3 + 4H2O + N2

 A single substance reacts to make multiple substances. This is a decomposition

reaction.

Test Yourself
Identify the equation as a composition reaction, a decomposition reaction, or neither.

C3H8 → C3H4 + 2H2; explain how you get the answer.

Answer
Decomposition

KEY TAKEAWAYS

 A composition reaction produces a single substance from multiple reactants.

 A decomposition reaction produces multiple products from a single reactant.
 Combustion reactions are the combination of some compound with oxygen to make oxides
of the other elements as products (although nitrogen atoms react to make N 2).
Name: _______________________________________ Year and Section: _____________

Combustion in O2 gas, Combination and Decomposition Worksheet (2 pts per no.)

1. Identify if each is a composition reaction and which is not? Write your answer after the
chemical reaction equation.
a. NaCl + AgNO3 → AgCl + NaNO3
b. CaO + CO2 → CaCO3
2. Which is a composition reaction and which is not?
a. H2 + Cl2 → 2HCl
b. 2HBr + Cl2 → 2HCl + Br2
3. Which is a composition reaction and which is not?
a. 2SO2 + O2 → 2SO3
b. 6C + 3H2 → C6H6
4. Which is a composition reaction and which is not?
a. 4Na + 2C + 3O2 → 2Na2CO3
b. Na2CO3 → Na2O + CO2
5. Which is a decomposition reaction and which is not?
a. HCl + NaOH → NaCl + H2O
b. CaCO3 → CaO + CO2
6. Which is a decomposition reaction and which is not?
a. 3O2 → 2O3
b. 2KClO3 → 2KCl + 3O2
7. Which is a decomposition reaction and which is not?
a. Na2O + CO2 → Na2CO3
b. H2SO3 → H2O + SO2
8. Which is a decomposition reaction and which is not?
a. 2C7H5N3O6 → 3N2 + 5H2O + 7CO + 7C
b. C6H12O6 + 6O2 → 6CO2 + 6H2O
9. Which is a combustion reaction and which is not?
a. C6H12O6 + 6O2 → 6CO2 + 6H2O
b. 2Fe2S3 + 9O2 → 2Fe2O3 + 6SO2
10. Which is a combustion reaction and which is not?
a. CH4 + 2F2 → CF4 + 2H2
b. 2H2 + O2 → 2H2O
11. Which is a combustion reaction and which is not?
a. P4 + 5O2 → 2P2O5
b. 2Al2S3 + 9O2 → 2Al2O3 + 6SO2
12. Which is a combustion reaction and which is not?
a. C2H4 + O2 → C2H4O2
b. C2H4 + Cl2 → C2H4Cl2
13. Is it possible for a composition reaction to also be a combustion reaction? Give an example to
support your case.
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14. Is it possible for a decomposition reaction to also be a combustion reaction? Give an example
to support your case.
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15. Complete and balance each combustion equation.
a. C4H9OH + O2 → ?
b. CH3NO2 + O2 → ?

Score: 30pts.
  Single Displacement Reaction or Single Replacement Reaction

A single displacement reaction or single-replacement reaction is a chemical reaction in which one

element is substituted or displaced or replaced by another element in a compound, generating a
new element and a new compound as products. The general pattern for this type of reaction is:

A + BD AD + B

How do we predict which element can displace another element?

We have to consult the table on common metals activity series.

Table on Common Metal Activity Series

The one on top can displace the one below.(Li – top most; Au – lowest)
1. Lithium - Li 8. Manganese - Mn 15. Lead – Pb
2. Potassium – K 9. Zinc - Zn 16. * Hydrogen - *H
3. Barium – Ba 10. Chromium - Cr 17. Copper - Cu
4. Calcium - Ca 11. Iron - Fe 18. Silver - Hg
5. Sodium - Na 12. Cobalt - Co 19. Mercury - Hg
6. Magnesium - Mg 13. Nickel - Ni 20. Platinum - Pt
7. Aluminum - Al 14. Tin - Sn 21. Gold - Au

For example,

 2HCl(aq) + Zn(s) → ZnCl2(aq) + H2(g) is an example of a single-replacement/displacement

reaction. Zn replaced hydrogen atoms in HCl are by Zn atom, and in the process a new
compound ZnCl2 and hydrogen in its free state as gas are formed because Zn is top of H in the
activity series (Zn is more reactive than H).
 When a lithium metal is placed in a calcium hydroxide solution results in a single displacement
reaction; Li(s) + Ca(OH)2(aq) LiOH(aq)+ Ca, Li replaced Ca because Li is more reactive
than Ca (Li is above Ca in the Activity Series Table. But since Li is more reactive than Mg, the
reaction, Mg(s)+ LiNO3(aq) cannot reasonably occur – no reaction only a mixture is formed.
 Use the activity series to predict the products, if any, of each equation.

1. FeCl2 + Zn → ? Because zinc is above iron in the activity series, it will replace iron in the
compound. The products of this single-replacement reaction are ZnCl 2 and Fe.
2. HNO3 + Au → ? Gold is below hydrogen in the activity series. As such, it will not replace
hydrogen in a compound with the nitrate ion. No reaction is predicted.

Test Yourself
Use the activity series to predict the products, if any, of this equation.
AlPO4 + Mg → ?
Answer
Mg3(PO4)2 and Al, support your answer.
 Another example of a single-replacement reaction is 2NaCl(aq) + F2(g) → 2NaF(s) + Cl2(g)
Here fluorine is in the free state as gas reacts with NaCl (aq) results in the formation of NaF(s) with
F replacing Cl ion and chlorine is in the free state as as products because F is above Cl in the
column in PTE. Collectively, these elements; F, Cl, Br, I, are called the halogens and are in the
next-to-last column on the periodic table. The elements on top of the column will replace the
elements below them on the periodic table but not the other way around. Thus, the reaction
represented by;
 CaI2(s) + Cl2(g) → CaCl2(s) + I2(s) will occur, but the reaction CaF2(s) + Br2(ℓ)→ CaBr2(s) + F2(g)
will not because bromine is below fluorine on the periodic table. This is just one of many ways
the periodic table helps us understand chemistry.
EXAMPLES
Will a single-replacement reaction occur? If so, identify the products.

1. MgCl2 + I2 → ? because iodine is below chlorine on the periodic table, a single-replacement

reaction will not occur.
2. CaBr2 + F2 → ? because fluorine is above bromine on the periodic table, a single-
replacement reaction will occur, and the products of the reaction will be CaF 2 and Br2.

Test Yourself
Will a single-replacement reaction occur? If so, identify the products.
FeI2 + Cl2 → ?
Answer
Yes; FeCl2 and I2; support your answer.

 Double Displacement Reaction or Double Replacement Reaction

A double-replacement reaction occurs when parts of two ionic compounds in aqueous solutions

are exchanged, making two new compounds and otherwise known as “exchange partners”
reaction or more specifically “ion exchange” reaction or also called metathesis. A characteristic of
a double-replacement equation is that there are two compounds as reactants and two different
compounds as products. An example is

CuCl2(aq) + 2AgNO3(aq) → Cu(NO3)2(aq) + 2AgCl(s)

There are two equivalent ways of considering a double-replacement equation: either the cations
are swapped, or the anions are swapped. (You cannot swap both; you would end up with the same
substances you started with.) Either perspective should allow you to predict the proper products,
as long as you pair a cation with an anion and not a cation with a cation or an anion with an anion.

EXAMPLES
Predict the products of this double-replacement equation: BaCl 2 + Na2SO4 → ?
Solution
Thinking about the reaction as either switching the cations or switching the anions, we would
expect the products to be BaSO4 and NaCl.
Test Yourself
Predict the products of this double-replacement equation: KBr + AgNO3 → ?
Answer
KNO3 and AgBr

Predicting whether a double-replacement reaction occurs is somewhat more difficult than

predicting a single-replacement reaction. However, there is one type of double-replacement
reaction that we can predict: the precipitation reaction. A precipitation reaction occurs when two
ionic compounds are dissolved in water and form a new ionic compound that does not dissolve;
this new compound falls out of solution as a solid precipitate. The formation of a solid precipitate is
the driving force that makes the reaction proceed.
To predict if double-replacement reactions will occur, we need to know what kinds of ionic
compounds form precipitates in the light of the Table of "Some Useful Solubility Rules". If a
compound is soluble, we use the (aq) label with it, indicating it dissolves. If a compound is not
soluble, we use the (s) label with it and assume that it will precipitate out of solution. If everything
is soluble, then no reaction will be expected.

Table of Some Useful Solubility Rules

These compounds generally dissolve in water

Exceptions:
(are soluble):

All compounds of Li+, Na+, K+, Rb+, Cs+, and NH4+ None

All compounds of NO3− and C2H3O2− None

Compounds of Cl−, Br−, I− Ag+, Hg22+, Pb2+

Compounds of SO42 Hg22+, Pb2+, Sr2+, Ba2+

These compounds generally do not dissolve in

Exceptions:
water (are insoluble):

Compounds of Li+, Na+, K+, Rb+, Cs+, and

Compounds of CO32− and PO43−
NH4+

Compounds of Li+, Na+, K+, Rb+, Cs+, NH4+,

Compounds of OH−
Sr2+, and Ba2+

For example, consider the possible double-replacement reaction between Na 2SO4 and SrCl2. The
solubility rules say that all ionic sodium compounds are soluble and all ionic chloride compounds
are soluble except for Ag+, Hg22+, and Pb2+, which are not being considered here. Therefore,
Na2SO4 and SrCl2 are both soluble. The possible double-replacement reaction products are NaCl
and SrSO4. Are these soluble? NaCl is (by the same rule we just quoted), but what about SrSO 4?
Compounds of the sulfate ion are generally soluble, but Sr 2+ is an exception: we expect it to be
insoluble—a precipitate. Therefore, we expect a reaction to occur, and the balanced chemical
equation would be

Na2SO4(aq) + SrCl2(aq) → 2NaCl(aq) + SrSO4(s)

You would expect to see a visual change corresponding to SrSO 4 precipitating out of solution
("Double-Replacement Reactions")

Double-Replacement Reactions

Some double-replacement reactions are obvious because you can see a solid precipitate coming
out of solution.
 EXAMPLES
Will a double-replacement reaction occur? If so, identify the products.

1. Ca(NO3)2 + KBr → ?

According to the solubility rules, both Ca(NO3)2 and KBr are soluble. Now we consider what the
double-replacement products would be by switching the cations (or the anions)—namely,
CaBr2 and KNO3. However, the solubility rules predict that these two substances would also be
soluble, so no precipitate would form. Thus, we predict no reaction in this case.

2. NaOH + FeCl2 → ?

According to the solubility rules, both NaOH and FeCl 2 are expected to be soluble. If we
assume that a double-replacement reaction may occur, we need to consider the possible
products, which would be NaCl and Fe(OH)2. NaCl is soluble, but, according to the solubility
rules, Fe(OH)2 is not. Therefore, a reaction would occur, and Fe(OH) 2(s) would precipitate out
of solution. The balanced chemical equation is

2NaOH(aq) + FeCl2(aq) → 2NaCl(aq) + Fe(OH)2(s)

Test Yourself
Will a double-replacement equation occur? If so, identify the products.
Sr(NO3)2 + KCl → ?
Answer
No reaction; all possible products are soluble.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

 A single-replacement reaction replaces one element for another in a compound.

 The periodic table or an activity series can help predict whether single-replacement
reactions occur.
 A double-replacement reaction exchanges the cations (or the anions) of two ionic
compounds.
 A precipitation reaction is a double-replacement reaction in which one product is a solid
precipitate.
 Solubility rules are used to predict whether some double-replacement reactions will occur.
Name: ___________________________________ Year and Section: _________________

Single and Double Displacement/Replacement Reaction Worksheet

1. What are the general characteristics that help you recognize single-replacement reactions?
3 pts
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
2. What are the general characteristics that help you recognize double-replacement reactions?
3 pts.
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________

3. Assuming that each single-replacement reaction occurs, predict the products and write each
balanced chemical equation. 4 pts.
a. Zn + Fe(NO3)2 → ?

b. F2 + FeI3 → ?

4. Assuming that each single-replacement reaction occurs, predict the products and write each
balanced chemical equation. 4 pts.
a. Li + MgSO4 → ?

b. NaBr + Cl2 → ?

5. Assuming that each single-replacement reaction occurs, predict the products and write each
balanced chemical equation. 4 pts.
a. Mg + HCl → ?

b. HI + Br2 → ?

6. Use the periodic table or the activity series to predict if each single-replacement reaction will
occur and, if so, write a balanced chemical equation. 4 pts.
a. FeCl2 + Br2 → ?

b. Fe(NO3)3 + Al → ?

7. Use the periodic table or the activity series to predict if each single-replacement reaction will
occur and, if so, write a balanced chemical equation. 4 pts.
a. Zn + Fe3(PO4)2 → ?

b. Ag + HNO3 → ?

8. Use the periodic table or the activity series to predict if each single-replacement reaction will
occur and, if so, write a balanced chemical equation. 4 pts.
a. NaI + Cl2 → ?

b. AgCl + Au → ?

9. Assuming that each double-replacement reaction occurs, predict the products and write each
balanced chemical equation. 4 pts.
a. Pb(NO3)2 + KBr → ?

b. K2O + MgCO3 → ?

10. Use the solubility rules to predict if each double-replacement reaction will occur and, if so,
write a balanced chemical equation. 4 pts.
a. Pb(NO3)2 + KBr → ?

b. K2O + Na2CO3 → ?

11. Use the solubility rules to predict if each double-replacement reaction will occur and, if so,
write a balanced chemical equation. 4 pts.
a. Na2CO3 + Sr(NO2)2 → ?

b. (NH4)2SO4 + Ba(NO3)2 → ?

12. Use the solubility rules to predict if each double-replacement reaction will occur and, if so,
write a balanced chemical equation. 4 pts.
a. K3PO4 + SrCl2 → ?

b. NaOH + MgCl2 → ?

13. Use the solubility rules to predict if each double-replacement reaction will occur and, if so,
write a balanced chemical equation. 4 pts.
a. KC2H3O2 + Li2CO3 → ?

b. KOH + AgNO3 → ?

Score: 50 pts.
 Common Specific Classification of Chemical Reactions

Ionic Chemical Reaction Equations : A Closer Look

For single displacement and double displacement reactions, many of the reactions included ionic
compounds: compounds between metals and nonmetals or compounds that contained
recognizable polyatomic ions. Now we take a closer look at reactions that include ionic compounds
like salt fertilizer used in Agriculture.

One important aspect about ionic compounds that differs from molecular compounds has to do
with dissolving in a liquid, such as water. When molecular compounds, such as sugar, dissolve in
water, the individual molecules drift apart from each other. When ionic compounds dissolve, the
ions physically separate from each other. We can use a chemical equation to represent this
process—for example, with NaCl:

NaCl(s) −→H2O Na+(aq)+Cl−(aq)

When NaCl dissolves in water, the ions separate and go their own way in solution; the ions are
now written with their respective charges, and the (aq) phase label emphasizes that they are
dissolved (Figure of "Ionic Solutions"). This process is called dissociation; we say that the
ions dissociate.

Figure of Ionic Solutions

When an ionic compound dissociates in water, water molecules surround each ion and separate it
from the rest of the solid. Each ion goes its own way in solution.

All ionic compounds that dissolve behave this way. Keep in mind that when the ions
separate, all the ions separate. Thus, when CaCl2 dissolves, the one Ca2+ ion and the two Cl− ions
separate from each other:

CaCl2(s) −→H2O Ca2+(aq)+Cl−(aq)+Cl−(aq)orCaCl2(s) −→H2O Ca2+(aq)+2Cl−(aq)

That is, the two chloride ions go off on their own. They do not remain as Cl 2 (that would be
elemental chlorine; these are chloride ions); they do not stick together to make Cl 2− or Cl22−. They
become dissociated ions in their own right. Polyatomic ions also retain their overall identity when
they are dissolved. For example, when(NH 4)2SO4 or ammonium sulfate dissolves 2 NH4 ions
separate from each other and polyatomic SO42+retain its identity in aqueous solution.

(NH4)2SO4(s) H2O NH41+(aq) + NH41+(aq) + SO42+(aq) or (NH4)2SO4(s) H2O 2NH41+(aq) + SO4(aq)

 EXA MPLE
Write the chemical equation that represents the dissociation of each ionic compound.

1. KBr

KBr(s) →H2O K+(aq) + Br−(aq)

2. Na2SO4

Not only do the two sodium ions go their own way, but the sulfate ion stays together as the
sulfate ion. The dissolving equation is

Na2SO4(s) → 2Na+(aq) + SO42−(aq)

Test Yourself
Write the chemical equation that represents the dissociation of (NH 4)2S
Answer
(NH4)2S(s) → 2NH4+(aq) + S2−(aq) and explain how you get the answer.

When chemicals in solution react, the proper way of writing the chemical formulas of the dissolved
ionic compounds is in terms of the dissociated ions, not the complete ionic formula. A complete
ionic equation is a chemical equation in which the dissolved ionic compounds are written as
separated ions. Solubility rules are very useful in determining which ionic compounds are
dissolved and which are not. For example, when NaCl(aq) reacts with AgNO 3(aq) in a double-
replacement reaction to precipitate AgCl(s) and form NaNO 3(aq), the complete ionic equation
includes NaCl, AgNO3, and NaNO3 written as separated ions:

Na+(aq) + Cl−(aq) + Ag+(aq) + NO3−(aq) → AgCl(s) + Na+(aq) + NO3−(aq)

This is more representative of what is occurring in the solution.

EXAMPLE
Write the complete ionic equation for each chemical reaction.

1. KBr(aq) + AgC2H3O2(aq) → KC2H3O2(aq) + AgBr(s)

For any ionic compound that is aqueous, we will write the compound as separated ions.

K+(aq) + Br−(aq) + Ag+(aq) + C2H3O2−(aq) → K+(aq) + C2H3O2−(aq) + AgBr(s)

2. MgSO4(aq) + Ba(NO3)2(aq) → Mg(NO3)2(aq) + BaSO4(s)

The complete ionic equation is

Mg2+(aq) + SO42−(aq) + Ba2+(aq) + 2NO3−(aq) → Mg2+(aq) + 2NO3−(aq) + BaSO4(s)

Test Yourself
Write the complete ionic equation for
CaCl2(aq) + Pb(NO3)2(aq) → Ca(NO3)2(aq) + PbCl2(s)
Answer
Ca2+(aq) + 2Cl−(aq) + Pb2+(aq) + 2NO3−(aq) → Ca2+(aq) + 2NO3−(aq) + PbCl2(s)
You may notice that in a complete ionic equation, some ions do not change their chemical form;
they stay exactly the same on the reactant and product sides of the equation. For example, in

Na+(aq) + Cl−(aq) + Ag+(aq) + NO3−(aq) → AgCl(s) + Na+(aq) + NO3−(aq)

the Ag+(aq) and Cl−(aq) ions become AgCl(s), but the Na+(aq) ions and the NO3−(aq) ions stay as
Na+(aq) ions and NO3−(aq) ions. These two ions are examples of spectator ions, ions that do
nothing in the overall course of a chemical reaction. They are present, but they do not participate
in the overall chemistry. It is common to cancel spectator ions (something also done with algebraic
quantities) on the opposite sides of a chemical equation:

Na+(aq)+Cl−(aq)+Ag+(aq)+ NO3−(aq)→AgCl(s)+Na+(aq)+NO3−(aq)

What remains when the spectator ions are removed is called the net ionic equation, which
represents the actual chemical change occurring between the ionic compounds:

Cl−(aq) + Ag+(aq) → AgCl(s)

It is important to reiterate that the spectator ions are still present in solution, but they don’t
experience any net chemical change, so they are not written in a net ionic equation.

EXA MPLE 8
Write the net ionic equation for each chemical reaction.

1. K+(aq) + Br−(aq) + Ag+(aq) + C2H3O2−(aq) → K+(aq) + C2H3O2−(aq) + AgBr(s)

2. Mg2+(aq) + SO42−(aq) + Ba2+(aq) + 2NO3−(aq) → Mg2+(aq) + 2NO3−(aq) + BaSO4(s)

Solution
1. In the first equation, the K+(aq) and C2H3O2−(aq) ions are spectator ions, so they are
canceled:
 K+(aq)+Br−(aq)+Ag+(aq)+C2H3O2−(aq)→ K+(aq)+C2H3O2−(aq)+AgBr(s)
The net ionic equation is

Br−(aq) + Ag+(aq) → AgBr(s)

2. In the second equation, the Mg2+(aq) and NO3−(aq) ions are spectator ions, so they
are canceled:
Mg2+(aq)+SO42−(aq)+Ba2+(aq)+ 2NO3−(aq)→Mg2+(aq)+2NO3−(aq)+BaSO4(s)
The net ionic equation is

SO42−(aq) + Ba2+(aq) → BaSO4(s)

Test Yourself
Write the net ionic equation for
CaCl2(aq) + Pb(NO3)2(aq) → Ca(NO3)2(aq) + PbCl2(s)
Answer
Pb2+(aq) + 2Cl−(aq) → PbCl2(s)
Chemistry Is Everywhere: Soluble and Insoluble Ionic Compounds

The concept of solubility versus insolubility in ionic compounds is a matter of degree. Some ionic
compounds are very soluble, some are only moderately soluble, and some are soluble so little that
they are considered insoluble. For most ionic compounds, there is also a limit to the amount of
compound can be dissolved in a sample of water. For example, you can dissolve a maximum of
36.0 g of NaCl in 100 g of water at room temperature, but you can dissolve only 0.00019 g of AgCl
in 100 g of water. We consider NaCl soluble but AgCl insoluble.

One place where solubility is important is in the tank-type water heater found in many homes in the
United States. Domestic water frequently contains small amounts of dissolved ionic compounds,
including calcium carbonate (CaCO3). However, CaCO3 has the relatively unusual property of
being less soluble in hot water than in cold water. So as the water heater operates by heating
water, CaCO3 can precipitate if there is enough of it in the water. This precipitate, called limescale,
can also contain magnesium compounds, hydrogen carbonate compounds, and phosphate
compounds. The problem is that too much limescale can impede the function of a water heater,
requiring more energy to heat water to a specific temperature or even blocking water pipes into or
out of the water heater, causing dysfunction.

Another place where solubility versus insolubility is an issue is the Grand Canyon. We usually think
of rock as insoluble. But it is actually ever so slightly soluble. This means that over a period of
about two billion years, the Colorado River carved rock from the surface by slowly dissolving it,
eventually generating a spectacular series of gorges and canyons. And all because of solubility!

K E Y T A K E A W A YS

 Ionic compounds that dissolve separate into individual ions.

 Complete ionic equations show dissolved ionic solids as separated ions.
 Net ionic equations show only the ions and other substances that change in a chemical
reaction.
Name: ______________________________________ Year and Section: _______________

IONIC CHEMICAL REACTION WORKSHEET

1. Write a chemical equation that represents NaBr(s) dissociating in water. 2 pts.
_______________________________________________________________________
2. Write a chemical equation that represents SrCl 2(s) dissociating in water. 2 pts.
_______________________________________________________________________
3. Write a chemical equation that represents (NH 4)3PO4(s) dissociating in water. 2 pts.
_______________________________________________________________________
4. Write the complete ionic equation for the reaction of FeCl 2(aq) and AgNO3(aq). You may have
to consult the solubility rules. 3 pts.
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________

5. Write the complete ionic equation for the reaction of BaCl 2(aq) and Na2SO4(aq). You may have
to consult the solubility rules. 3 pts.
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________

6. Write the complete ionic equation for the reaction of KCl(aq) and NaC 2H3O2(aq). You may
have to consult the solubility rules. 3 pts.
_______________________________________________________________________

7. Write the complete ionic equation for the reaction of Fe 2(SO4)3(aq) and Sr(NO3)2(aq). You may
have to consult the solubility rules. Identify the spectator ions. 4 pts
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________

8. Write the net ionic equation for the reaction of FeCl 2(aq) and AgNO3(aq). You may have to
consult the solubility rules. Identify the spectator ions. 4 pts
_______________________________________________________________________

9. Write the net ionic equation for the reaction of BaCl 2(aq) and Na2SO4(aq). You may have to
consult the solubility rules. Identify the spectator ions. 4 pts
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________

10. Write the net ionic equation for the reaction of KCl(aq) and NaC 2H3O2(aq). You may have to
consult the solubility rules. Identify the spectator ions. 4 pts
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

11. Write the net ionic equation for the reaction of Fe 2(SO4)3(aq) and Sr(NO3)2(aq). You may have
to consult the solubility rules. Identify the spectator ions. 4 pts
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________

Score: 35
Neutralization Chemical Reactions

In Module 2, we defined an acid as an ionic compound that contains H + as the cation and base is
an ionic compound that contains (OH)1- as the anion. Now let use the Arrhenius definition of
acid as any compound that increases the amount of hydrogen ion (H +) in an aqueous solution
while a base as a compound that increases the amount of hydroxide ion (OH −) in an aqueous
solution.

The reaction of an acid and a base is called a neutralization reaction. Although acids and bases
have their own unique chemistries, the acid and base cancel each other’s chemistry to produce
rather innocuous substances—water and salt. In fact, the general reaction between an acid and a
base is

acid + base → water + salt

where the term salt is defined as any ionic compound (soluble or insoluble) that is formed from a
reaction between an acid and a base. (In chemistry, the word salt refers to more than just table
salt.)

For example, the balanced chemical equation for the reaction between HCl(aq) and KOH(aq) is

HCl(aq) + KOH(aq) → H2O(ℓ) + KCl(aq)

where the salt is KCl. By counting the number of atoms of each element, we find that only one
water molecule is formed as a product. However, in the reaction between HCl(aq) and
Mg(OH)2(aq), additional molecules of HCl and H2O are required to balance the chemical equation:

2HCl(aq) + Mg(OH)2(aq) → 2H2O(ℓ) + MgCl2(aq)

Here, the salt is MgCl2. (This is one of several reactions that take place when a type of antacid—a
base—is used to treat stomach acid.)

EXAMPLES
Write the balanced chemical equation of each of the neutralization reaction between each
acid and base.

1. HNO3(aq) and Ba(OH)2(aq)

First, we will write the chemical equation with the formulas of the reactants and the expected
products; then we will balance the equation.
Solution:
 The expected products are water and barium nitrate, so the initial chemical reaction is

HNO3(aq) + Ba(OH)2(aq) → H2O(ℓ) + Ba(NO3)2(aq)

To balance the equation, we need to realize that there will be two H 2O molecules, so two
HNO3 molecules are required:

2HNO3(aq) + Ba(OH)2(aq) → 2H2O(ℓ) + Ba(NO3)2(aq)

This chemical equation is now balanced.

2. H3PO4(aq) and Ca(OH)2(aq)

Solution
 The expected products are water and calcium phosphate, so the initial chemical
equation is

H3PO4(aq) + Ca(OH)2(aq) → H2O(ℓ) + Ca3(PO4)2(s)

According to the solubility rules, Ca3(PO4)2 is insoluble, so it has an (s) phase label. To
balance this equation, we need two phosphate ions and three calcium ions; we end up
with six water molecules to balance the equation:

2H3PO4(aq) + 3Ca(OH)2(aq) → 6H2O(ℓ) + Ca3(PO4)2(s)

This chemical equation is now balanced.

Test Yourself
Write the neutralization reaction between H 2SO4(aq) and Sr(OH)2(aq). Show how you get the
answer.
Answer
H2SO4(aq) + Sr(OH)2(aq) → 2H2O(ℓ) + SrSO4(aq)

Neutralization reactions are one type of chemical reaction that proceeds even if one reactant is not
in the aqueous phase. For example, the chemical reaction between muriatic acid or HCl(aq) and
Fe(OH)3(s) still proceeds according to the equation

3HCl(aq) + Fe(OH)3(s) → 3H2O(ℓ) + FeCl3(aq)

even though Fe(OH)3 is not soluble. When one realizes that Fe(OH)3(s) is a component of rust, this
explains why some cleaning solutions for rust stains contain acids—the neutralization reaction
produces products that are soluble and wash away. (Washing with acids like muriatic acid or HCl
is one way to remove rust and rust stains, but HCl must be used with caution!)

Complete and net ionic reactions for neutralization reactions will depend on whether the reactants
and products are soluble, even if the acid and base react. For example, in the reaction of HCl(aq)
and NaOH(aq),

HCl(aq) + NaOH(aq) → H2O(ℓ) + NaCl(aq)

the complete ionic reaction is

H+(aq) + Cl−(aq) + Na+(aq) + OH−(aq) → H2O(ℓ) + Na+(aq) + Cl−(aq)

The Na+(aq) and Cl−(aq) ions are spectator ions, so we can remove them to have

H+(aq) + OH−(aq) → H2O(ℓ)

as the net ionic equation. If we wanted to write this in terms of the hydronium ion, H 3O+(aq), we
would write it as

H3O+(aq) + OH−(aq) → 2H2O(ℓ)

With the exception of the introduction of an extra water molecule, these two net ionic equations are
equivalent.

However, for the reaction between HCl(aq) and Cr(OH) 2(s), because chromium(II) hydroxide is
insoluble, we cannot separate it into ions for the complete ionic equation:

2H+(aq) + 2Cl−(aq) + Cr(OH)2(s) → 2H2O(ℓ) + Cr2+(aq) + 2Cl−(aq)

The chloride ions are the only spectator ions here, so the net ionic equation is

2H+(aq) + Cr(OH)2(s) → 2H2O(ℓ) + Cr2+(aq)

EXAMPLE
Oxalic acid, H2C2O4(s), and Ca(OH)2(s) react very slowly. What is the net ionic equation
between these two substances if the salt formed is insoluble? (The anion in oxalic acid is the
oxalate ion, C2O42−.)
Solution
The products of the neutralization reaction will be water and calcium oxalate:
H2C2O4(s) + Ca(OH)2(s) → 2H2O(ℓ) + CaC2O4(s)
Because nothing is dissolved, there are no substances to separate into ions, so the net ionic
equation is the equation of the three solids and one liquid.
Test Yourself
What is the net ionic equation between HNO3(aq) and Ti(OH)4(s)?
Answer
4H+(aq) + Ti(OH)4(s) → 4H2O(ℓ) + Ti4+(aq)

KEY TAKEAWAYS

 The Arrhenius definition of an acid is a substance that increases the amount of H + in an
aqueous solution.
 The Arrhenius definition of a base is a substance that increases the amount of OH − in an
aqueous solution.
 Neutralization is the reaction of an acid and a base, which forms water and a salt.
 Net ionic equations for neutralization reactions may include solid acids, solid bases, solid
salts, and water.
Name: ____________________________________ Year and Section: _________________

NEUTRALIZATION REACTION WORKSHEET

1. What is the Arrhenius definition of an acid? 2 points
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
2. What is the Arrhenius definition of a base? 2 points
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
3. Predict the products of each acid-base combination listed. Assume that a neutralization
reaction occurs. Write the balanced chemical equation of each. 2points each reaction
a. HCl and KOH
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
b. H2SO4 and KOH
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________

c. HBr and Fe(OH)3

__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
d. HNO2 and Al(OH)3
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
e. HClO3 and Mg(OH)2
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
4. Write a balanced chemical equation for the neutralization reaction between each given acid
and base. Include the proper phase labels. 2 points each reaction
a. HI(aq) + KOH(aq) → _____________________?
b. H2SO4(aq) + Ba(OH)2(aq) → ________________________?
c. HNO3(aq) + Fe(OH)3(s) → ______________________________?

5. Write the complete and net ionic equations for the neutralization reaction between HClO 3(aq)
and Zn(OH)2(s). Assume the salt is soluble. 3 points
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
6. Explain why the net ionic equation for the neutralization reaction between HCl(aq) and
KOH(aq) is the same as the net ionic equation for the neutralization reaction between
HNO3(aq) and RbOH. 3 points
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
7. Explain why the net ionic equation for the neutralization reaction between HCl(aq) and
KOH(aq) is different from the net ionic equation for the neutralization reaction between
HCl(aq) and AgOH. 3 points
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________

Score: 35 points
Oxidation-Reduction or Redox Reactions

Consider this chemical reaction:

2Na(s) + Cl2(g) → 2NaCl

The reactants are elements, and it is assumed that they are electrically neutral; they have the
same number of electrons as protons. The product, however, is ionic; it is composed of Na + and
Cl− ions. Somehow, the individual sodium atoms as reactants had to lose an electron to make the
Na+ ion, while the chlorine atoms as reactants had to each gain an electron to become the Cl − ion.
This reaction involves the transfer of electrons between atoms.

In reality, electrons are lost by some atoms and gained by other atoms simultaneously. However,
mentally we can separate the two processes. Oxidation is defined as the loss of one or more
electrons by an atom. Reduction is defined as the gain of one or more electrons by an atom. In
reality, oxidation and reduction always occur together; it is only mentally that we can separate
them. Chemical reactions that involve the transfer of electrons are called oxidation-reduction (or
redox) reactions.

Redox reactions require that we keep track of the electrons assigned to each atom in a chemical
reaction. How do we do that? We use an artificial count called the oxidation number to keep track
of electrons in atoms. Oxidation numbers are assigned to atoms based on a series of rules.
Oxidation numbers are not necessarily equal to the charge on the atom; we must keep the
concepts of charge and oxidation numbers separate.

The rules for assigning oxidation numbers to atoms are as follows:

1. Atoms in their elemental state are assigned an oxidation number of 0.

2. Atoms in monatomic (i.e., one-atom) ions are assigned an oxidation number equal to their
charge. Oxidation numbers are usually written with the sign first, then the magnitude, which
differentiates them from charges.
3. In compounds, fluorine is assigned a −1 oxidation number; oxygen is usually assigned a −2
oxidation number (except in peroxide compounds [where it is −1] and in binary compounds with
fluorine [where it is positive]); and hydrogen is usually assigned a +1 oxidation number (except
when it exists as the hydride ion, H−, in which case rule 2 prevails).
4. In compounds, all other atoms are assigned an oxidation number so that the sum of the
oxidation numbers on all the atoms in the species equals the charge on the species (which is
zero if the species is neutral).

Let us work through a few examples for practice.

 In H2, both hydrogen atoms have an oxidation number of 0, by rule 1. In NaCl, sodium has an
oxidation number of +1, while chlorine has an oxidation number of −1, by rule 2.
 In H2O, the hydrogen atoms each have an oxidation number of +1, while the oxygen has an
oxidation number of −2, even though hydrogen and oxygen do not exist as ions in this
compound as per rule 3.
 By contrast, by rule 3 in hydrogen peroxide (H 2O2), each hydrogen atom has an oxidation
number of +1, while each oxygen atom has an oxidation number of −1.
 We can use rule 4 to determine oxidation numbers for the atoms in SO 2. Each oxygen atom
has an oxidation number of −2; for the sum of the oxidation numbers to equal the charge on the
species (which is zero), the sulfur atom is assigned an oxidation number of +4. Does this mean
that the sulfur atom has a 4+ charge on it? No, it only means that the sulfur atom is assigned a
+4 oxidation number by our rules of apportioning electrons among the atoms in a compound.
 EXAMPLES
Assign oxidation numbers to the atoms in each substance.

1. Br2

Br2 is the elemental form of bromine. Therefore, by rule 1, each atom has an oxidation
number of 0.

2. SiO2

By rule 3, oxygen is normally assigned an oxidation number of −2. For the sum of the
oxidation numbers to equal the charge on the compound SiO 2 (which is zero), the silicon
atom is assigned an oxidation number of +4 because the compound has 2 O atoms, so oxygen
has an oxidation number of -4(2 x -2).

3. Ba(NO3)2

The compound barium nitrate can be separated into two parts: the Ba 2+ ion and the
nitrate ion. Considering these separately, the Ba 2+ ion has an oxidation number of +2 by
rule 2. Now consider the NO3− ion. Oxygen is assigned an oxidation number of −2, and
there are three oxygen. According to rule 4, the sum of the oxidation number on all
atoms must equal the charge on the species, so we have the simple algebraic equation

x + 3(−2) = −1

where x is the oxidation number of the nitrogen atom and −1 represents the charge on
the polyatomic ion nitrate. Evaluating,

x + (−6) = −1x = +5

Thus, the oxidation number on the N atom in the nitrate ion is +5.
Considering rule 4, the sum of the atoms in the compound Ba(NO 3)2 is 0. To check:
+2 + (+5 +(-2 x 3)) x 2 = 0
+2 + (5 + (-6)) x 2 = 0
+2 + (-1) x 2 = 0
+2 + (-2) = 0
0 = 0.
Answers: Barium = +2, Nitrogen = = +5, oxygen = -2
Test Yourself
Assign oxidation numbers to the atoms in H 3PO4. Show your solution on how to get the
answers.
Answer
H = +1, O = −2, P = +5

All redox reactions occur with a simultaneous change in the oxidation numbers of some atoms. At
least two elements must change their oxidation numbers. When an oxidation number of an atom is
increased in the course of a redox reaction, that atom is being oxidized. When an oxidation
number of an atom is decreased in the course of a redox reaction, that atom is being reduced.
Oxidation and reduction are thus also defined in terms of increasing or decreasing oxidation
numbers, respectively.
 EXAMPLES 14
Identify what is being oxidized and reduced in this redox equation.
2Na + Cl2 → 2NaCl
Solution
Consider the reactants. Because both reactants are the elemental forms of their atoms, the Na
and Cl atoms as reactants have oxidation numbers of 0. In the ionic product, the sodium ions
have an oxidation number of +1, while the chloride ions have an oxidation number of −1:

We note that the sodium is increasing its oxidation number from 0 to +1, so it is being oxidized;
chlorine is decreasing its oxidation number from 0 to −1, so it is being reduced:

Because oxidation numbers are changing, this is a redox reaction. Note that the total
number of electrons lost by the sodium (two, one lost from each atom) is gained by the
chlorine atoms (two, one gained for each atom).

Test Yourself
Identify what is being oxidized and reduced in this redox equation.
C + O2 → CO2
Answer
C is being oxidized from 0 to +4; O is being reduced from 0 to −2.

In this introduction to oxidation-reduction reactions, we are using straightforward examples.

However, oxidation reactions can become quite complex; the following equation represents a
redox reaction:

To demonstrate that this is a redox reaction, the oxidation numbers of the compounds being
oxidized and reduced are listed; can you determine what is being oxidized and what is being
reduced? This is also an example of a net ionic reaction; spectator ions that do not change
oxidation numbers are not displayed in the equation.

Food and Drink App: Acids in Foods

Many foods and beverages contain acids. Acids impart a sour note to the taste of foods, which
may add some pleasantness to the food. For example, orange juice contains citric acid, H 3C6H5O7.
Note how this formula shows hydrogen atoms in two places; the first hydrogen atoms written are
the hydrogen atoms that can form H+ ions, while the second hydrogen atoms written are part of the
citrate ion, C6H5O73−. Lemons and limes contain much more citric acid—about 60 times as much—
which accounts for these citrus fruits being more sour than most oranges. Vinegar is essentially a
~5% solution of acetic acid (HC2H3O2) in water. Apples contain malic acid (H2C4H4O5; the
name malic acid comes from the apple’s botanical genus name, malus), while lactic acid
(HC3H5O3) is found in wine and sour milk products, such as yogurt and some cottage cheeses.

Table of "Various Acids Found in Food and Beverages" lists some acids found in foods, either
naturally or as an additive. Frequently, the salts of acid anions are used as additives, such as
monosodium glutamate (MSG), which is the sodium salt derived from glutamic acid. As you read
the list, you should come to the inescapable conclusion that it is impossible to avoid acids in food
and beverages.

Table of Various Acids Found in Food and Beverages

Acid
Acid Name Use and Appearance
Formula

acetic acid HC2H3O2 flavoring; found in vinegar

adipic acid H2C6H8O4 flavoring; found in processed foods and some antacids

alginic acid various thickener; found in drinks, ice cream, and weight loss products

antioxidant, also known as vitamin C; found in fruits and

ascorbic acid HC6H7O6
vegetables

benzoic acid HC6H5CO2 preservative; found in processed foods

citric acid H3C6H5O7 flavoring; found in citrus fruits

dehydroacetic
HC8H7O4 preservative, especially for strawberries and squash
acid

erythrobic acid HC6H7O6 antioxidant; found in processed foods

fatty acids various thickener and emulsifier; found in processed foods

fumaric acid H2C4H2O4 flavoring; acid reactant in some baking powders

flavoring; found in processed foods and in tomatoes, some

glutamic acid H2C5H7NO4
cheeses, and soy products

flavoring; found in wine, yogurt, cottage cheese, and other sour

lactic acid HC3H5O3
milk products

malic acid H2C4H4O5 flavoring; found in apples and unripe fruit

phosphoric acid H3PO4 flavoring; found in some colas

propionic acid HC3H5O2 preservative; found in baked goods

sorbic acid HC6H7O2 preservative; found in processed foods

stearic acid HC18H35O2 anticaking agent; found in hard candies

succinic acid H2C4H4O4 flavoring; found in wine and beer

 Acid
Acid Name Use and Appearance
Formula

tartaric acid H2C4H4O6 flavoring; found in grapes, bananas, and tamarinds

This cola can clearly show that an acid (phosphoric acid) is an ingredient.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

 Oxidation-reduction (redox) reactions involve the transfer of electrons from one atom to
another.
 Oxidation numbers are used to keep track of electrons in atoms.
 There are rules for assigning oxidation numbers to atoms.
 Oxidation is an increase of oxidation number (a loss of electrons); reduction is a decrease in
oxidation number (a gain of electrons).
Name: _______________________________ Year and Section ________________

OXIDATION-REDUCTION WORKSHEET
1. Is the reaction

2K(s) + Br2(ℓ) → 2KBr(s)

an oxidation-reduction reaction? Explain your answer. 2 pts

_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
2. Is the reaction

NaCl(aq) + AgNO3(aq) → NaNO3(aq) + AgCl(s)

an oxidation-reduction reaction? Explain your answer. 2 points

__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
3. In the reaction

2Ca(s) + O2(g) → 2CaO

indicate what has lost electrons and what has gained electrons. 2 points
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

4. In the reaction

16Fe(s) + 3S8(s) → 8Fe2S3(s)

indicate what has lost electrons and what has gained electrons. 2 points
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
5. In the reaction

2Li(s) + O2(g) → Li2O2(s)

indicate what has been oxidized and what has been reduced. 2 points
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
6. In the reaction

2Ni(s) + 3I2(s) → 2NiI3(s)

indicate what has been oxidized and what has been reduced. 2 points
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
7. What are two different definitions of oxidation? 2 points
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
8. What are two different definitions of reduction? 2 points
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
9. Assign oxidation numbers to each atom in each substance.
a. Ca(NO3)2; 3 points
Atom Oxidation number

b. CO; 2 points
Atom Oxidation number

c. CO2; 2 points
Atom Oxidation number

d. AgNO3; 3 points
Atom Oxidation number

e. NH3; 2 points
Atom Oxidation number

10. Identify what is being oxidized and reduced in this redox equation by assigning oxidation
numbers to the atoms. 2 points

2K + MgCl2 → 2KCl + Mg

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

Score: 30 points

Name: ___________________________________ Year and Section: _________________

Application

A. 7 points each x 3 = 21

1. What occurs during a chemical reaction? What are the names given to the various substances
that are involved in chemical reactions?

______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

2. A student is asked to give the sum of the coefficients in the following balanced chemical
equation: 3 FeO + 2Al Al2O3 + 3Fe. The student’s answer is 8. Why is the answer
incorrect?

______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

3. Fish need oxygen to breathe. Where does this oxygen come from? Is this a decomposition
reaction? Why?

______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

4. Acid rain is a serious environmental problem that results from two consecutive direct
combination reactions. Research the acid rain problem. Summarize your findings in a short
paragraph in the space provided.
5. Nitrogen-containing fertilizers can increase crop yield tremendously. However, these fertilizers
can enter the runoff water and be carried to nearby lakes. There, they cause algae population to
grow out of control, eventually killing the fish in the lake. Explain why too much algae population in
the lake will eventually kill the fish in the lake.

B. Again reflect on the key concepts on organic substances. 9 pts. (3 pts. Each)
1. What are the key concepts on chemicalreactions that you gained clarity?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

2. Have you realized the significance of these learning as BAT students? Clarify.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
3. How will you use these concepts in your journey through life?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

A = 21 pts.
B = 9 pts
Total Score: 30pts

Closure
You have done a great job for doing the learning worksheets about chemical reactions.
Tying up the different concepts you have learned from module 1 to 3, you understand more why
nature is so diverse when there are only 118 elements and are more capable to make informed
and wiser decisions in the field of agriculture.
Module 3 Assessment
We will now assess what you have learned in module 3; The Interactions of Matter.

I. Multiple Choice: Write the letter of the answer on the space before the number.
Choices: A. binary B. chemical bonds C. chemical reaction D. polyatomic
E. collide F. carbon G. Polymer H. Catenation I. Hydrocarbon
J. Chemical Equation
1. Change in atom’ number of electrons, that leads to the formation of compound or
release of elements.

2. Chemical reactions happen only if atoms___________ with each other.

3. Forces of attraction between atoms or molecules that keep together the atoms of a
compound unit.

4. The backbone element of biological systems and organic industry.

5. The bonding of atoms of the same element into a series, called a chain.

6. The simplest organic compounds are those composed of only two elements: carbon
and hydrogen.

7. Complex molecules made up of various simple molecules known as monomers, that

combine together to form long repeating chain molecules.

8. Compound composed of only two different elements like NaCl.

9. Compound composed of more than two different elements like NH 4NO3.

10. Are written to describe chemical reactions.

Answer the following:

1. Explain what is wrong with this double-replacement reaction. 3 pts.

NaCl(aq) + KBr(aq) → NaK(aq) + ClBr(aq)

___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

2. Classify the reaction as combination, decomposition, single replacement or double-

replacement. Then add coefficients to balance the equation, when needed. 2 pts. each
a. Zn + H2SO4 ZnSO4 + H2; _________________________________

b. Na + Cl2 NaCl; ______________________

c. KCl + AgNO3 KNO3+ AgCl; _____________________

d. H2CO3 CO2 + H2O; __________________________

3. Write the complete and net ionic equations for this double-replacement reaction. 2 pts.
 BaCl2(aq) + Ag2SO4(aq) → ? ______________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

4. Complete this reaction and identify the spectator ions. What is the net ionic equation? 2 pts.

3H2SO4(aq) + 2Al(OH)3(s) → ?

Score: 25 points

References

H. Eugene LeMay. (n.d.).

H. Eugene LeMay, Jr., Herbert Beall, Karen M. Robblee, Douglas C. Brower. (2000). Chemistry:
Connections to Our Changing World. New Jersey: Prentice Hall, Inc.
Morris Hein, Susan Arena. (2011). Introduction to Chemistry. Illinois: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Tabayan, J. P. (2015). Chemistry: Introductory Interactive Approach, 1st Edition. Malabon City:
Jimczyville Publications.
Zimmer, G. F. (2000). The Biological Farmer. Texas: Acres U.S.A., Publishers.