Synthesis Reaction Chemistry Example 4

Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.

Example 4

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.

Solution

  1. 1
    Magnesium burning: 2Mg+O2→2MgO2\text{Mg} + \text{O}_2 \rightarrow 2\text{MgO}. Two simpler substances combine to form one product — this is a synthesis (combination) reaction.
  2. 2
    Sodium + chlorine: 2Na+Cl2→2NaCl2\text{Na} + \text{Cl}_2 \rightarrow 2\text{NaCl}. Again, two elements combine into one compound — synthesis.
  3. 3
    Pattern: metal + non-metal → ionic compound. Synthesis reactions always produce a single, more complex product from simpler reactants.

Answer

2Mg+O2→2MgO;2Na+Cl2→2NaCl(both synthesis)2\text{Mg} + \text{O}_2 \rightarrow 2\text{MgO}; \quad 2\text{Na} + \text{Cl}_2 \rightarrow 2\text{NaCl} \quad (\text{both synthesis})
Synthesis reactions follow the pattern A + B → AB. Recognizing that two elements combining into one compound is always synthesis helps classify reactions quickly.

About Synthesis Reaction

A chemical reaction in which two or more simpler substances (elements or compounds) combine to form a single, more complex product.

Learn more about Synthesis Reaction →

More Synthesis Reaction Examples

Example 1 easy

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

Example 2 medium

Predict the product and write the balanced equation for the synthesis reaction between sodium and ch

Example 3 easy

Identify this reaction type: [formula].

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