Question

Hi everyone
I'm new here
And I'm really stuck on this question. I guess I just don't understand what I'm being asked to do.

Here's the question
The chemical equation Al2SO4 + 3BACl2 → 2AlCl3 + 3BaSO4
represents a:
a. Synthesis reaction.
b. decomposition reaction.
c. single-replacement reaction.
d. double-replacement reaction.

Answer 1

Do you understand the definitions of those reactions?

Answer 2

you're going to hate me, but no.

Answer 3

They just threw this in my test. And I don't know what I'm doing.

Answer 4

Okay. Let's start by going over the definitions then.

Answer 5

A Synthesis reaction is a reaction where, simply put, two elements/compounds combine to form a single compound. i.e. X + Y => XY

Answer 6

A decomposition reaction is the opposite- one element/compound breaks apart into two. i.e. XY => X + Y

Answer 7

got it.

Answer 8

A single-replacement reaction is a reaction with one element and one compound. If the element is a gas, the gas is "replaced" by the gas in the compound- if the element is a metla, then the metal is "replaced" by the metal in the compound. i.e. X +WY => W + XY or X + WY => Y + WX

Answer 9

i understand what you're telling me, but the equation written out is driving my mind bonkers.

Answer 10

A double-replacement reaction is like a single replacement reaction, but with two compounds instead of an element and one compound. i.e. XZ +WY => XY + WZ

Answer 11

Ah, just pretend that the variables represent any old element.

Answer 12

even the correct equation written out, i guess im just really silly.

Answer 13

mmm let me see here.... (forgive me if im wrong) but based on how you've explained it to me, it is a double replacement reaction, correct?

Answer 14

Yup. :)

Answer 15

Thanks! I was really confused there. Thank's for breaking it down so easy for me!

Answer 16

Np

Answer 17

my book does not explain it like that XD this is a nice community. I guess I can come here whenever I need help on something.

Answer 18

that's what i always do, usually for calc help though xD. if your question is solved you should probably close it! you can't ask new questions until you close your current one anyways :)

Answer 19

well thanks! ^-^ I will need to open a new one lol XD thank you so much for all your help ^-^ I'm following you now.

Answer 20

thanks :p