Synthesis Reaction Examples in Chemistry

Start with the recap, study the fully worked examples, then use the practice problems to check your understanding of Synthesis Reaction.

This page combines explanation, solved examples, and follow-up practice so you can move from recognition to confident problem-solving in Chemistry.

Concept Recap

A chemical reaction in which two or more simple substances combine to form a single, more complex product.

Building something bigger from smaller parts — like assembling LEGO bricks into a structure.

Read the full concept explanation →

How to Use These Examples

  • Read the first worked example with the solution open so the structure is clear.
  • Try the practice problems before revealing each solution.
  • Use the related concepts and background knowledge badges if you feel stuck.

What to Focus On

Core idea: Pattern: A + B → AB. Two or more reactants combine into one product.

Common stuck point: A synthesis reaction always produces exactly one product from two or more reactants.

Worked Examples

Example 1

easy
Write the balanced equation for the synthesis of magnesium oxide from magnesium and oxygen.

Solution

  1. 1
    Synthesis reactions have the general form: \text{A} + \text{B} \rightarrow \text{AB}.
  2. 2
    Unbalanced: \text{Mg} + \text{O}_2 \rightarrow \text{MgO}.
  3. 3
    Balance: 2\text{Mg} + \text{O}_2 \rightarrow 2\text{MgO}. Check: Mg 2=2, O 2=2. ✓

Answer

2\text{Mg} + \text{O}_2 \rightarrow 2\text{MgO}
Synthesis (combination) reactions join two or more reactants to form a single, more complex product. Metal + oxygen → metal oxide is a common pattern.

Example 2

medium
Predict the product and write the balanced equation for the synthesis reaction between sodium and chlorine gas.

Practice Problems

Try these problems on your own first, then open the solution to compare your method.

Example 1

easy
Identify this reaction type: \text{N}_2 + 3\text{H}_2 \rightarrow 2\text{NH}_3.

Example 2

hard
When magnesium ribbon burns in air, it reacts with oxygen to form a white powder. Write the balanced equation and classify the reaction type. Predict the product if sodium reacted with chlorine gas under similar conditions.
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Background Knowledge

These ideas may be useful before you work through the harder examples.

chemical reactionchemical equation