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):
Examine the cycling of matter between abiotic and biotic parts of ecosystems to explain the flow of energy and the conservation of matter.
Generate a scientific explanation based on evidence for the role of photosynthesis and cellular respiration in the cycling of matter and flow of energy into and out of organisms.