Chapter 3: Problem 104
Determine whether each of the following equations represents a combination reaction, a decomposition reaction, or a combustion reaction: (a) \(2 \mathrm{NaHCO}_{3} \longrightarrow\) \(\mathrm{Na}_{2} \mathrm{CO}_{3}+\mathrm{CO}_{2}+\mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O},(\mathrm{b}) \mathrm{NH}_{3}+\mathrm{HCl} \longrightarrow \mathrm{NH}_{4} \mathrm{Cl}\) (c) \(2 \mathrm{CH}_{3} \mathrm{OH}+3 \mathrm{O}_{2} \longrightarrow 2 \mathrm{CO}_{2}+4 \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}\)
Short Answer
Step by step solution
Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Combination Reaction
Here are a few key characteristics of combination reactions:
- Simplicity: Usually involves simple reactants and results in a relatively simple product.
- Energy: These reactions commonly release energy in the form of heat or light.
- Examples: Formation of water from hydrogen and oxygen is a combination reaction (\(2\:\mathrm{H}_2 + \mathrm{O}_2 \rightarrow 2\:\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}\)).
Combination reactions are fundamental in understanding how different materials can interact to form compounds with entirely new properties.
Decomposition Reaction
For example, the reaction \(2 \mathrm{NaHCO}_{3} \rightarrow \mathrm{Na}_{2}\mathrm{CO}_{3} + \mathrm{CO}_{2} + \mathrm{H}_{2}\mathrm{O}\) is a classic example of a decomposition reaction. In this case, sodium bicarbonate breaks down into sodium carbonate, carbon dioxide, and water.
Here are some characteristics of decomposition reactions:
- Complex to Simple: A single reactant forms multiple products.
- Energy Input: Often requires energy input (like heating) to break chemical bonds.
- Common in Nature: Decomposition occurs naturally as part of processes such as the breakdown of organic matter.
Understanding decomposition reactions is crucial for interpreting many natural and industrial processes.
Combustion Reaction
In the reaction \(2 \mathrm{CH}_{3}\mathrm{OH} + 3 \mathrm{O}_{2} \rightarrow 2 \mathrm{CO}_{2} + 4 \mathrm{H}_{2}\mathrm{O}\), methanol (\(\mathrm{CH}_{3}\mathrm{OH}\)) combusts in the presence of oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water.
Key traits of combustion reactions include:
- Reactivity: High-energy release makes these reactions very reactive.
- Oxidation Process: Combustion involves oxidation, which is the addition of oxygen to a substance.
- Applications: Provides energy in engines, power plants, and heating systems.
Combustion reactions are essential for various technological and industrial applications as they provide a significant source of energy used in daily life.