Interactive Chemistry Worksheets for Students |
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The word 'synthesis' means to put together.
In a synthesis reaction two substances combine to produce a single product.
The general chemical equation for a synthesis reaction is A + B AB
The reaction of a metal with a non-metal to produce a compound is an example of a synthesis reaction.
1. The burning of magnesium metal
If a piece of magnesium ribbon is ignited a very bright light is given off and a white powder or ash is produced/ Note: the burning of magnesium produces UV light which may damage the eyes if looked upon directly. Wear safety goggles and do not directly look at the light.
Magnesium + oxygen magnesium oxide
2Mg + O2 2MgO
2. The reaction of sodium with chlorine
If a piece of sodium metal is melted in a deflagrating spoon and placed into a gas jar containing chlorine gas a violent reaction occurs. If the jar is observed crystals of sodium chloride salt are seen which have formed on the sides of the glass.
Sodium + chlorine sodium chloride
2Na + Cl2 2NaCl
3. The reaction of aluminum with bromine
Aluminum is resistant towards reaction because of a tough impermeable oxide layer which strongly adheres to the metal. If however, a sheet of aluminum foil is scratched with steel wool the aluminum is exposed it will react violently with pure liquid bromine
Aluminum + bromine aluminum bromide
2Al + 3Br2 2AlBr3
4. The burning of iron
A nail will not react when heated over a Bunsen burner. However, if the surface area of the iron is increased by using steel wool a reaction is seen to occur. Increasing the surface area increases the rate of reaction.
Iron + oxygen iron(II) oxide
2Fe + O2 2FeO