Single replacement reactions, also known as single displacement reactions, occur when one element replaces another in a compound. This type of reaction follows the general form:
A + BC → AC + B
Where A and B are elements, and BC is a compound. During the reaction, A replaces B in the compound BC to form a new compound AC and free element B.
Key Concepts
Reactivity Series: The reactivity series is a list of metals in order of their reactivity, from most reactive to least reactive. This series helps predict whether a single replacement reaction will occur.
Activity Series: The activity series is a list of non-metals in order of their reactivity, from most reactive to least reactive. This series also helps predict single replacement reactions.
Observe the Reaction: Single replacement reactions can often be identified by observing a change in color, formation of a precipitate, or evolution of a gas.
Example
Let's consider the reaction between zinc (Zn) and hydrochloric acid (HCl):
Use evidence and scientific reasoning to explain how characteristic animal behaviors (e.g., building nests to protect young from cold, herding to protect young from predators, attracting mates for breeding by producing special sounds and displaying colorful plumage, transferring pollen or seeds to create conditions for seed germination and growth) and specialized plant structures (e.g., flower brightness, nectar, and odor attracting birds that transfer pollen; hard outer shells on seeds providing protection prior to germination) affect the probability of successful reproduction of both animals and plants.