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Synthesis, Decomposition Reactions, and Oxidation-Reduction
Chapter 7, Problem 14(choose chapter or problem)
Questions & Answers
QUESTION: Give an example of a synthesis reaction and of a decomposition reaction. Are synthesis and decomposition reactions always also oxidation–reduction reactions? Explain.
ANSWER:Step 1 of 4
Synthesis Reaction:
A synthesis reaction, a combination reaction, occurs when two or more substances combine to form a single, more complex compound.
Example:
Water’s synthesis from its elements hydrogen & oxygen:
\({\rm{2}}{{\rm{H}}_{\rm{2}}}{\rm{ + }}{{\rm{O}}_{\rm{2}}}{\rm{ }} \to {\rm{ 2}}{{\rm{H}}_{\rm{2}}}{\rm{O}}\)
Here, two molecules of hydrogen gas react with one molecule of oxygen gas to produce two molecules of water.
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Synthesis, Decomposition Reactions, and Oxidation-Reduction
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We explore synthesis and decomposition reactions, showcasing examples like the formation of water and its breakdown into simpler substances. We also clarify that while many of these reactions are redox reactions involving electron transfer, some synthesis and decomposition reactions may not necessarily be redox reactions, as seen in specific examples.