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Chemical Reactions and Equations

1.0Introduction

Change is the law of nature. There are so many situations of daily life, where we can observe various changes. Like, (i) Conversion of water into vapours from a cup of hot tea. (ii) Corrosion of iron articles (rusting) if exposed to humid atmosphere. (iii) Cooking of food. (iv) Digestion of food in our body. (v) Breaking of any article like glass. (vi) Combustion of fuel in our vehicle.

Scientist classify these changes as (1) Physical changes (2) Chemical changes

Eggs, flour, sugar and baking powder are mixed and baked to yield a cake. This is a chemical change.

Physical changes

A change in which physical properties of a substance changes but the chemical composition do not change. For example, Freezing, melting, boiling, condensation, etc.

Characteristic features of physical changes (1) The identity of the substance is maintained. (2) The change is generally temporary. (3) Heat change may or may not take place. (4) Only the physical state or some of the physical properties of the substances are changed.

Chemical changes

A change in which one or more substances change into new substances with a different chemical composition. For example, burning of a candle, rusting of iron, combustion of fuel, etc.

Characteristic features of chemical changes

(1) The identity of original substance is completely lost. (2) The change is generally permanent. (3) The change is generally accompanied by energy change. (4) The change cannot be reversed generally.

NOTE:

  • In earlier standards, we have seen how compounds are formed by chemical combination of element.
  • We have also learnt that the driving force behind formation of a chemical bond is to attain an electronic configuration with a complete octet.
  • The atoms attain a complete octet by giving, taking or sharing of electrons with each other.

2.0Chemical reaction and its characteristics

The process in which a substance or substances undergo a chemical change to produce new substances, with entirely new properties are known as chemical reaction.

Active Chemistry 1

Aim To study the reaction between magnesium and oxygen to form magnesium oxide.

Caution Perform this activity in the presence of a teacher. It would be better to wear eye protection (as used by welders).

Materials Required Burner, tong, magnesium ribbon, sand paper, watch glass.

Magnesium burns in air to give a bright white flame

Method (i) Clean a magnesium ribbon about 2 cm long, by rubbing it with sand paper. (ii) Hold it with a pair of tongs. Burn it using a spirit lamp or burner and collect the ash so formed in a watch glass. Burn the magnesium ribbon keeping it as far as possible from your eyes.

Burning of a magnesium ribbon in air and collection of magnesium oxide in a watch glass.

Now answer What do you observe?

Observation It is observed that magnesium ribbon burns with a dazzling white light and changes into a white powder. This powder is magnesium oxide.

Conclusion Magnesium burns in air to combine with oxygen to form Magnesium Oxide Magnesium metal has a shining surface but due to attack of moist air, it is coated with a white layer of magnesium oxide. To use it for any chemical reaction, it is first rubbed with a sand paper. magnesium oxide.

Active Chemistry 2

Aim To study the reaction between lead nitrate solution and potassium iodide solution.

Materials required Test tube, lead nitrate solution, potassium iodide solution.

Method (i) Take lead nitrate solution in a test tube. (ii) Add potassium iodide solution to this.

Observation It is observed that a yellow solid (precipitate) is formed.

Conclusion Lead nitrate solution reacts with potassium iodide solution to form a yellow precipitate of lead iodide.

Pb(NO3​)2​(aq)+2KI(aq)
Lead nitratePbI2​( s)(↓)+2KNO3​(aq)
(Colourless)Potassium iodideLead (II) iodidePotassium nitrate
(Colourless)(Yellow ppt.)(Colourless)

Active Chemistry 3

Aim To study the reaction between zinc and sulphuric acid or hydrochloric acid.

Materials required Conical flask or test tube, zinc granules, dilute hydrochloric acid or sulphuric acid.

Method (i) Take a few zinc granules in a conical flask or a test tube. (ii) Add dilute hydrochloric acid or sulphuric acid to this.

  • Handle the acid with care because acid is corrosive in nature.

Now answer Touch the conical flask or test tube. Is there any change in the temperature?

Observation and discussion Bubbles of hydrogen gas are found to rise briskly from the surface of zinc pieces. The gas evolved can be tested by bringing a lighted candle. It is found to burn with a popping sound. Further, the flask is found to be hot.

Conclusion Zinc reacts with dilute sulphuric acid or hydrochloric acid with the evolution of hydrogen gas and heat (i.e., reaction is exothermic).

Formation of hydrogen gas by the action of dilute sulphuric acid on zinc. Zn(s)+ dil. H2​SO4​(aq)→ZnSO4​(aq)+H2​( g)(↑)+ Heat Zinc Sulphuric acid Zinc sulphate Hydrogen (gas) With the help of above activities, we have seen that whenever a chemical reaction has taken place, some changes are observed. These observable changes are called the characteristics of a chemical reaction.

Characteristics of chemical reactions

(i) Change in state: The physical state of the substances normally changes. For example, Formation of solid MgO from solid Mg and gaseous O2​. 2Mg(s)+O2​→2MgO (ii) Change in colour: In some of the chemical reactions, change in colour can be observed. For example, (a) Formation of reddish-brown rust on grey iron nails. (b) Formation of yellow ppt. of lead iodide from colourless solution of Pb(NO3​)2​ and KI. (iii) Evolution of a gas: In some cases, a gas may be evolved. For example, Evolution of H2​ gas, in the reaction between Zn and dil HCl . Zn+2HCl⟶ZnCl2​+H2​( g)↑ (iv) Change in temperature: Most of the reactions are accompanied by temperature change i.e. increase or decrease in temperature.

For example, (a) In the reaction between Zn and H2​SO4​, flask was found to be warm. Thus, rise in temperature has taken place (Exothermic). (b) If a reaction between barium hydroxide (Ba(OH)2​) and ammonium chloride, (NH4​Cl) is carried out in a test tube, it is observed that the bottom of the test tube becomes cooler (Endothermic). Some clues that a chemical reaction has occurred

Colour change
Bubble forms
Solid forms
Heat or flame occurs

  • Here is some important chemical formulae which you have learnt in your previous class that can help you in writing a chemical equation.
Name of the CompoundFormula
Calcium hydroxide (Lime water) (Slaked lime)Ca(OH)2​
Calcium carbonate (Marble, lime stone)CaCO3​
Calcium oxide (Quick lime)CaO
Iron (II) oxideFeO
Iron (III) oxideFe2​O3​
Magnesium oxideMgO
Lead nitratePb(NO3​)2​
Lead iodidePbI2​
Potassium iodideKI
Ammonium chlorideNH4​Cl
Ammoniun hydroxideNH4​OH
Potassium chlorateKClO3​
Lead oxidePbO
Aluminium oxideAl2​O3​
Silver chlorideAgCl
Cuprous oxideCu2​O
Cupric oxideCuO
Silver nitrateAgNO3​
Barium chlorideBaCl2​
Barium sulphateBaSO4​

3.0Writing a chemical equation

Whenever a chemical reaction takes place, a number of steps are involved. Thus, description of chemical reaction in sentence form becomes long. So, some short-hand representation of chemical reaction is followed. It can be done in two ways:

Word equation

Chemical equation which represents a chemical reaction briefly in words is called word equation. For example, the word equation can be written as: Magnesium + Oxygen ⟶ Magnesium oxide

Chemical equation

A chemical equation is a short-hand method that describes a chemical reaction in terms of symbols and formulae of different reactants and products. For example, the chemical equation can be written as Mg+O2​→MgO

Rules for writing a chemical equation

(i) The symbols and formulae of the reactants are always written on the L.H.S. (left hand side) of arrow and a plus (+) sign is put between them. (ii) The symbols and formulae of the products are always written on the R.H.S. (right hand side) of arrow and a plus ( + ) sign is put between them. (iii) An arrow ( ⟶ ) sign is put between the reactants and the products, pointing from reactants towards products. For example, Na+H2​O→NaOH+H2​ A chemical equation expressed in symbols and formulae, such that the number of atoms of different elements towards the side of the reactants is not equal to the number of atoms of different elements towards the side of the products, is called skeletal equation or unbalanced equation. To make this equation meaningful, this equation is balanced according to law of conservation of mass, then it is called balanced chemical equation.

How to balance an unbalanced chemical equation According to the law of conservation of mass, the total mass of products must be equal to the total mass of the reactants (as mass can neither be created nor destroyed). This is possible only if the number of atoms of each element is equal on the two sides of the equation.

Mass of reactants = Mass of the products Balanced chemical equation makes calculations easy.

Balancing of a chemical equation means making the number of atoms of each element equal on both sides of the equation. (i) To understand this, let us consider the following word equation for Zinc + Sulphuric acid ⟶ Zinc sulphate + Hydrogen Chemical equation for the above word equation will be, Zn+H2​SO4​⟶ZnSO4​+H2​ Let us examine the number of atoms of different elements on both the sides of the arrow.

ElementNumber of atoms in L.H.S.Number of atoms in R.H.S.
Zn11
H22
S11
O44

As the number of atoms of each element is same on both sides of the arrow, the equation can be said a balanced chemical equation.

(ii) Now consider another chemical equation. Fe+O2​+H2​O⟶Fe2​O3​.H2​O On counting number of different atoms on both the sides of the arrow, we will find that, this equation is not balanced.

ElementNumber of atoms in L.H.S.Number of atoms in R.H.S.
Fe12
O34
H22

Let us learn about balancing a chemical equation step by step. Step-I : Write the word equation for the given chemical reaction. Step-II : Convert the formed word equation in the chemical equation (Skeletal chemical equation). Step-III : Formula of each reactant and product has to be enclosed in boxes, so that during balancing, formula of substances cannot be changed. Step-IV : Listing of number of reactants and products is done. Step-V : Balancing should be started with compound which have biggest formula. Step-VI : Then, balancing of different elements is done one by one. Step-VII: Finally, the equation is checked.

The method of balancing the equation by using smallest natural number coefficients is called as hit and trial method.

(iii) Let us balance some of the chemical reactions by following the above steps. Magnesium metal reacts with hydrochloric acid to form magnesium chloride and hydrogen.

Law of conservation of mass

Step-I : Word equation Magnesium + Hydrochloric acid ⟶ Magnesium chloride + Hydrogen Step-II : Chemical equation, Mg+HCl⟶MgCl2​+H2​ Step-III: Enclose all formulae into boxes. Mg+HCl⟶MgCl2​+H2​ Step-IV : Count the number of atoms for all elements.

ElementNumber of atoms in L.H.S.Number of atoms in R.H.S.
Mg11
Cl12
H12

We can see that number of Mg is same on both sides but Cl and H atoms differs on both sides. Step-V : As the number of atoms is deficient at reactant side, let's begin from here. At reactant side HCl is the bigger formula, so we will start with it. Step-VI : Put coefficient 2 before HCl to make chlorine equal to reactant side. Mg+2HCl→MgCl2​+H2​ Here, we can see that H , automatically gets balanced. Step-VII : Now, check the number of atoms of different elements on both sides of the equation. These are equal. This means that the equation is balanced.

In a balanced chemical equation, an integer precedes the formula of each substance. This number is known as stoichiometric coefficient.

Balancing of equations

Steam is passed over red hot iron to form Iron (II, III) oxide and hydrogen in presence of air. Step-I : Iron + Steam ⟶ Iron (II, III) Oxide + Hydrogen Step-II : Fe+H2​O⟶Fe3​O4​+H2​ Step-III: Fe+H2​O⟶Fe3​O4​+H2​

ElementNumber of atoms in L.H.S.Number of atoms in R.H.S.
Fe13
H22
O14

Step-IV: Formula selected is Fe3​O4​ to start balancing oxygen, (i) To balance O -atoms, multiply H2​O in LHS by 4. Fe+4H2​O⟶Fe3​O4​+H2​ (ii) Now balance Fe atoms. 3Fe+4H2​O⟶Fe3​O4​+H2​ (iii) Balance H atoms. 3Fe+4HHO⟶Fe3​O4​+4H2​ Note: Mixture of ferrous oxide ( FeO ) and ferric oxide (Fe2​O3​) is also known as magnetic oxide of iron. Step-V : On checking the number of all elements, we found that equation is balanced now.

The reaction between methane and oxygen.

Write the balanced equation for the reaction involving the combustion of methane in presence of oxygen to form carbon dioxide and water. Explanation: Step-I : Methane + Oxygen ⟶ Carbon dioxide + Water Step-II : CH4​+O2​⟶CO2​+H2​O Step-III : CH4​+O2​⟶CO2​+H2​O Step-IV :

ElementNumber of atoms in L.H.S.Number of atoms in R.H.S.
C11
H42
O23

Step-V : Balancing different elements (i) C is already balanced. (ii) For H , place 2 before H2​O in R.H.S. CH4​+O2​⟶CO2​+2H2​O (iii) For 0, as after (ii) number of oxygen atoms becomes 4 in R.H.S. therefore, place 2 before O2​ in L.H.S. CH4​+2O2​⟶CO2​+2H2​O Step-VI : Check the correctness of the balanced equation

ElementNumber of atoms in L.H.S.Number of atoms in R.H.S.
C11
H44
O44

Hence, the equation is balanced.

Making chemical equations more informative On examining a balanced chemical equation, we observe that it does not give any information about the physical state of the reactant and product. Let's make balanced chemical equation more informative by following instructions. (1) Writing symbols for the physical state of reactants and the products, (s) for solid state (ℓ) for liquid state (g) for gaseous state (aq) for aqueous solution i.e. solution prepared in water. (2) Sometimes a gas evolved in a reaction is shown by the symbol ( ↑ ) i.e. by an arrow pointing upwards. Similarly, the precipitate if formed during the reaction is indicated by the symbol (↓) i.e. by an arrow pointing downwards. The abbreviation 'ppt' is also used to represent the precipitate if formed. (3) The conditions of temperature, pressure and the presence of catalyst, if any, may be represented by writing these conditions above and / or below the arrow (⟶) between the reactants and the products.

Few examples, CO(g)+2H2​( g)340 atm​CH3​OH(g) 6CO2​( g)+6H2​O(g) Sunlight  Chlorophyll ​C6​H12​O6​(aq)+6O2​( g) 2Na(s)+2H2​O(g)⟶2NaOH(aq)+H2​( g) or H2​↑ Ca(OH)2​(aq)+CO2​( g)⟶CaCO3​(↓) (or ppt) +H2​O(g) C(s)+O2​( g)⟶CO2​( g)+ heat N2​( g)+O2​( g)+ heat ⟶2NO(g)

Why is it necessary to balance the chemical equation? Explanation: In order to make law of conservation of mass applicable on the given chemical equation, it is necessary to make number of atoms of all elements equal in L.H.S. and R.H.S. Thus, balancing of equation is required.

4.0Types of chemical reactions

Accordingly, the reactions are classified in different types.

(i) Combination Reaction

The reactions in which two or more substances combine to form a single new substance are called combination reaction.

Active Chemistry 4

Aim To study combination reaction between calcium oxide, i.e., quick lime and water.

Materials required Beaker, water, calcium oxide or quick lime

Method (i) Take a small amount of calcium oxide or quick lime in a beaker. (ii) Slowly add water to this. (iii) Touch the beaker.

Formation of slaked lime by the reaction of calcium oxide with water.

When quick lime (CaO) was added to water, formation of slaked lime [Ca(OH)2​] has taken place, with the evolution of a large amount of heat. i.e. its an exothermic reaction.

Now answer Do you feel any change in temperature?

Observation and discussion A vigorous reaction is found to occur and the beaker is found to become very hot.

Conclusion Calcium oxide combines with water to form calcium hydroxide (slaked lime) and this reaction is highly exothermic. CaO(s)+H2​O(ℓ)⟶Ca(OH)2​(aq)+Heat Calcium oxide Water Calcium hydroxide (Quick lime) (Slaked lime)

Which solution is used for white washing of walls and which compound gives a shiny finish to the walls? Explanation: A solution of slaked lime produced by the reaction above is used for white washing of walls. Calcium hydroxide reacts slowly with the carbon dioxide in the air to form a thin layer of calcium carbonate on the walls. Calcium carbonate is formed after two to three days of white washing and gives a shiny finish to the walls. Ca(OH)2​(aq)+CO2​( g)⟶CaCO3​( s)+H2​O(g) Some more examples of combination reactions

(i) Burning of Coal C(s)+O2​( g)⟶CO2​( g) Carbon Oxygen Carbon dioxide

(ii) Formation of Water 2H2​( g)+O2​( g)⟶2H2​O(ℓ) Hydrogen Oxygen Water

(iii) Burning of Magnesium in air 2Mg(s)+O2​( g)⟶2MgO(s) Magnesium Oxygen Magnesium oxide

(iv) Formation of Iron sulphide Fe(s)+S(s)⟶FeS(s) Iron Sulphur Iron sulphide

(v) Formation of Ammonium chloride NH3​( g)+HCl(g)⟶NH4​Cl(s) Ammonia Hydrogen Ammonium Chloride Chloride

(vi) Formation of Calcium Carbonate CaO(s)+CO2(g)→CaCO3(s)Calcium oxide (Quick lime) + Carbon dioxide → Calcium carbonate

(vii) Reaction of Carbon Monoxide with Oxygen 2CO(g)+O2(g)→2CO2(g)This is also an exothermic reaction.

(viii) Formation of Nitrogen Dioxide 2NO(g)+O2(g)→2NO2(g)

How the process of respiration is said exothermic? Explanation : C6​H12​O6​(aq)+6O2​( g)⟶6CO2​( g)+6H2​O(ℓ)+ energy Glucose Oxygen Carbon dioxide Water Since energy is liberated, we can say that respiration is an exothermic reaction.

(ii) Decomposition Reaction

The reaction in which a single compound breaks up into two or more simpler substances is known as decomposition reaction. The decomposition reaction generally takes place when energy in some form such as heat, electricity or light is supplied to the reactants.

Types of decomposition reaction

(a) Thermal decomposition: The reaction in which a single compound breaks up into two or more simpler substances by the action of heat is called thermal decomposition reaction. Following activity shows thermal decomposition reaction:

Active Chemistry 5

Aim To study the decomposition of ferrous sulphate on heating.

Materials required Burner, boiling tube, tong, ferrous sulphate crystals

Method (i) Take about 2 g ferrous sulphate crystals in a dry boiling tube (ii) Note the colour of ferrous sulphate crystals. (iii) Heat the boiling tube over the flame of a burner or spirit lamp. (iv) Observe the colour of the crystals after heating.

Always remember not to point the mouth of boiling tube at your neighbours or yourself. Correct way of holding the boiling tube is given below.

Correct way of heating the boiling tube containing crystals of ferrous sulphate and of smelling the odour.

Observation It is observed that green coloured ferrous sulphate crystals ( FeSO4​.7H2​O ) on heating first change colour by losing water to form FeSO4​ which on further heating decomposes to leave behind a reddish-brown residue along with evolution of sulphur dioxide and sulphur trioxide gases.

Conclusion The reddish-brown residue is of ferric oxide. Hence, the following decomposition reaction takes place:

Formation of Ferrous Sulphate Crystals FeSO4·7H2O(s) → FeSO4(s) + 7H2O(l)Ferrous sulphate crystals (Green) → Anhydrous ferrous sulphate (White)

Formation of Ferric Oxide 2FeSO4(s) → Fe2O3(s) + SO2(g) + SO3(g)Anhydrous ferrous sulphate (White) → Ferric oxide (Reddish Brown) + Sulphur dioxide + Sulphur trioxide

SO2​ is a colourless gas which smells like burnt matches and turns moist blue litmus paper red. It also turns acidified potassium dichromate solution from orange to green. It is collected by downward displacement of water and is a pungent smelling gas.

Heating of lead nitrate and emission of nitrogen dioxide

Active Chemistry 6

Aim To study the thermal decomposition of lead nitrate.

Materials required Burner, test tube holder/tong, boiling tube, lead nitrate powder

Method (i) Take about 2 g lead nitrate powder in a boiling tube. (ii) Hold the boiling tube with a pair of tongs and heat it over the flame.

Observation Brown fumes of nitrogen dioxide (NO2​) are found to evolve and a yellow residue is left in the test tube.

Conclusion Solid lead nitrate decomposes on heating to give out brown fumes of NO2​ and a yellow residue of lead (II) oxide.

Decomposition of Lead Nitrate 2Pb(NO3)2(s) → 2PbO(s) + 4NO2(g) + O2(g)Lead nitrate (White) → Lead (II) oxide (Yellow) + Nitrogen dioxide (Brown fumes) + Oxygen

In the above two activities, it is seen that chemical reaction has taken place on absorption of heat. These type of decomposition reactions are called thermal decomposition reactions.

Some more examples of thermal decomposition reactions. (i) Decomposition of Limestone on Heating CaCO3 → CaO + CO2(g)Limestone (Calcium carbonate) → Quick lime (Calcium oxide) + Carbon dioxide

(ii) Decomposition of Zinc Carbonate on Heating ZnCO3 → ZnO + CO2(↑)Zinc carbonate → Zinc oxide + Carbon dioxide

(b) Electric Decomposition: The reaction in which a single compound breaks up into two or more simpler substances by the action of electricity is called electric decomposition reaction.

Following activity shows electric decomposition reaction:

Active Chemistry 7

Aim To study electrolytic decomposition, i.e., electrolysis of water.

Materials required Plastic mug, rubber stoppers, carbon electrodes, battery, water, dilute sulphuric acid, test tubes, candle.

Method (i) Take a plastic mug. Drill two holes at its base and fit rubber stoppers in these holes. Insert carbon electrodes in these rubber stoppers. (ii) Connect these electrodes to a 6-volt battery. (iii) Fill the mug with water such that the electrodes are immersed. Add a few drops of dilute sulphuric acid to the water. (iv) Take two test tubes filled with water and invert them over the two carbon electrodes. (v) Switch on the current and leave the apparatus undisturbed for some time. (vi) It will be observed that formation of bubbles takes place at both the electrodes. These bubbles displace water in the test tubes. (vii) Once the test tubes are partially filled with the respective gases, remove them carefully. (viii) Test these gases one by one by bringing burning candle close to the mouth of the test tubes.

Electrolysis of water

Now answer (i) Is the volume of the gas collected the same in both the test tubes? (ii) What happens in each test tube on bringing close to the burning candle? (iii) Which gas is present in each test tube?

Observation and discussion It is observed that the volume of gas collected over the cathode is double than that collected over the anode. The gas with double volume burns with a popping sound whereas the other gas supports burning (combustion). Thus, the gas with double the volume is hydrogen whereas the gas in the other tube is oxygen.

Conclusion Acidified water undergoes electrolysis producing H2​ and O2​ gases in the ratio of 2:1 by volume

2H2O(l) → 2H2(g) + O2(g)Water → Hydrogen (Burns with a popping sound) + Oxygen (Supporter of combustion)

These kind of reactions in which electric current is passed through the compound in liquid (or molten) or aqueous solution are called electrolytic decomposition reactions or simply electrolysis.

Some more examples of electrolysis. (i) Electrolysis of Molten Sodium Chloride 2NaCl → 2Na + Cl2(↑)Sodium chloride (molten) → Sodium metal + Chlorine (ii) Electrolytic Decomposition of Molten Alumina 2Al2O3 → 4Al + 3O2(↑)Alumina (molten) → Aluminium + Oxygen

(c) Photo decomposition: The reaction in which a single compound breaks up into two or more simpler substances by the action of light is called photo decomposition reaction.

Note: Photolysis of AgBr is used in black and white photography. Following activity shows photo decomposition reaction.

Active Chemistry 8

Aim To study photo-decomposition of silver chloride.

Materials required China dish, silver chloride

Method

(i) Take about 2 g of silver chloride in a china dish. Note its colour. (ii) Place this china dish in sunlight for some time. (iii) Observe the colour of the silver chloride after some time.
Photochemical decomposition of silver chloride to grey silver metal

Observation It is observed that white crystals of silver chloride turn grey in the sunlight.

Conclusion Silver chloride decomposes into grey silver and chlorine in the presence of light.

These types of decomposition reactions which take place on absorption of light are called photo decomposition reactions or simply photolysis.

Some more examples of photolysis (i) Photolysis of silver bromide

(ii) Photolytic decomposition of hydrogen peroxide.

Here, we can see that all decomposition reactions need energy in one or other form. Reactions which need energy (or energy is absorbed) are called endothermic reactions. Note: Hydrogen peroxide is kept in amber coloured bottles so as to cut off light.

If 2 g of barium hydroxide is added to 1 g of ammonium chloride, in a test tube, it was observed that bottom of test tube becomes cold. Give an explanation. Explanation : When barium hydroxide is added to ammonium chloride, an endothermic reaction takes place. Since heat is absorbed, so the bottom of the test tube becomes cold. Ba(OH)2​+2NH4​ClΔ​BaCl2​+2NH4​OH

(iii) Displacement reactions

A reaction in which a more reactive element displaces a less reactive element from its compounds is called displacement reaction. The elements involved may be metals or non-metals.

Relative reactivity of metals

Different metals possess different reactivities. The arrangement of metals in a vertical column in order of their decreasing reactivity from top to bottom is called reactivity series or activity series of metals.

Here is a tip to memorise the activity series of some metals which can help you to perform displacement reaction.

ElementSymbolTrick
PotassiumKPlease
SodiumNaStop
CalciumCaCalling
MagnesiumMgMe
AluminiumAlA
ZincZnZebra
IronFeInstead
TinSnTry
LeadPbLearning
HydrogenHHow
CopperCuCopper
MercuryHgMerc
SilverAgSaves
GoldAuGold

Activity series of some metals - most reactive to least reactive

Active Chemistry 9

Aim To study displacement of copper from copper sulphate solution by iron.

Materials required Test tubes, iron nails, sand paper, copper sulphate solution, test tube stand.

Method (i) Take three iron nails and clean them by rubbing with sandpaper. (ii) Take two test tube marked as (A) and (B). In each test tube, take about 10 mL copper sulphate solution. (iii) Tie two iron nails with a thread and immerse them carefully in the copper sulphate solution in test tube B for about 20 minutes. Keep one iron nail aside for comparison. (iv) After 20 minutes, take out the iron nails from copper sulphate solution. (v) Compare the intensity of the blue colour of copper sulphate solutions in test tubes (A) and (B). (vi) Also compare the colour of the iron nails dipped in copper sulphate solution with the one kept aside.

Iron nails and copper sulphate solutions compared before and after the experiment.

Observation It is observed that iron nail becomes brownish in colour and the blue colour of copper sulphate solution fades and changes to light green colour.

Conclusion Iron displaces copper from copper sulphate solution forming Iron (II) Sulphate in the solution, which has a light green colour. Hence, blue colour of copper sulphate solution fades. The displaced copper is deposited on the iron nail, giving it a brownish colour. Fe(s)+CuSO4​(aq)⟶FeSO4​(aq)+Cu(s)

Relative reactivity of some non-metals

Among halogens, fluorine is most reactive, and iodine is least reactive. F2​>Cl2​>Br2​>I2​

Some more examples of displacement reactions.

(i) Zn(s)+ Zinc Copper sulphate Zinc sulphate Copper (Bluish-Silver) (Blue) (Colourless) (Reddish Brown) (ii) Cu(s)+2AgNO3​(aq)⟶Cu(NO3​)2​(aq)+2Ag(s) Copper Silver nitrate Copper nitrate Silver (Dark blue) (iv) Double displacement reactions Those reactions in which two different atoms or groups of atoms are exchanged are called double displacement reactions or double decomposition reactions or metathesis reactions.

Active Chemistry 10

Aim To study double decomposition reaction between barium chloride solution and sodium sulphate solution.

Materials required Test tube, sodium sulphate solution, barium chloride solution

Method (i) Take about 3 mL of sodium sulphate solution in a test tube. (ii) In another test tube, take about 3 mL of Barium Chloride solution. (iii) Mix the two solutions.

Observation It is observed that a white solid insoluble in water is formed. This white insoluble solid is called precipitate.

Formation of barium sulphate and sodium chloride.

Conclusion Barium chloride solution reacts with sodium sulphate solution to form a white precipitate of barium sulphate along with sodium chloride in the solution. BaCl2​(aq)+Na2​SO4​(aq)⟶BaSO4​( S)+2NaCl(aq) Barium chloride Sodium Barium sulphate Sodium chloride solution sulphate solution (White ppt.) solution The above reaction is a double displacement reaction as well as precipitation reaction. In the above reaction, an insoluble compound i.e. BaSO4​ is formed because of double displacement reaction. This type of double displacement reaction where precipitate formation takes places, is called precipitation reaction.

(v) Oxidation and reduction reactions

The reaction which involves addition of oxygen or removal of hydrogen from a substance is called oxidation reaction.

The reaction which involves addition of hydrogen or removal of oxygen from a substance is called reduction reaction.

Active Chemistry 11

Aim To study oxidation of copper to copper (II) oxide. Materials required China dish, copper powder, burner, tripod stand, wire gauze

Method Heat a China dish containing about 1 g copper powder.

Observation It is observed that the brown copper

Conclusion Copper (brown in colour) on heating combines with oxygen to form black copper (II) oxide. 2Cu(s)+O2​( g)→2CuO(s) Copper Oxygen Copper (II) oxide (Brown) (Black) Here, we can say that copper is being oxidised, as it is gaining oxygen. In the above activity, if hydrogen gas is passed over the product ( CuO ) then black coating on the surface becomes brown because reverse reaction takes place. CuO(s)+H2​( g)Δ​Cu(s)+H2​O(ℓ) Here, we can say that copper oxide is being reduced, as it is loosing oxygen and hydrogen is being oxidised, as it is gaining oxygen.

OR

One reactant ( H2​ ) gets oxidised and other ( CuO ) gets reduced during this reaction.

Here is a tip to learn electronic concept of oxidation and reduction.

Such reactions where both oxidation and reduction reactions take place are called oxidationreduction reactions or redox reactions.

Some other examples of redox reactions are: (i)

ZnO : Oxidizing agent C : Reducing agent

(ii)

MnO : Oxidizing agent HCl : Reducing agent

(iii)

Fe2O3 : Oxidizing agent Al : Reducing agent

(iv)

H2S : Reducing agent Cl2 : Oxidizing agent

Memory map

5.0Corrosion

The chemical or electrochemical reaction between a material, usually a metal, and its environment that produces a deterioration of the material and its properties is called corrosion. The corrosion causes damage to building, ships and many other articles especially made of iron. During corrosion, metal gets changed into its oxide, sulphide, carbonate etc. Most common example of corrosion is rusting of iron.

Rust

Iron corrodes readily when exposed to moisture and gets covered with a brown flaky substance called rust. It is called as rusting of iron. Rust is hydrated Iron (III) oxide [ Fe2​O3​.2H2​O ]

Some more examples of corrosion

(i) Copper reacts with moist carbon dioxide in the air and slowly loses its shiny brown surface and acquires a green coating of basic copper carbonate. (ii) Silver articles become black after sometime when exposed to air.

Rancidity

The oxidation of oils or fats in food, resulting into a bad taste and bad smell is called rancidity. It is caused due to prolonged exposure of food in air. Oxygen present in air oxivpdise fats / oils present in food and form volatile substances, which have bad odour.

Prevention of rancidity

(i) Rancidity can be prevented by adding antioxidants to foods containing fats and oils. Antioxidants are reducing agents which when added to food, the food do not get oxidised easily and hence do not turn rancid easily.

Common antioxidants are: (a) BHA (Butylated Hydroxy Anisole) (b) BHT (Butylated Hydroxy Toluene)

Vitamin-E (tocopherol) and vitamin-C (ascorbic acid) are the two naturally occuring antioxidants. (ii) Rancidity can be prevented by packaging fat and oil containing foods in the presence of nitrogen gas. (iii) It can be retarded by keeping food in refrigerator. (iv) It can also be retarded by storing food in airtight containers. (v) It can be retarded by storing foods away from light.

6.0Basic terminology

  • Tongs - Clips to hold test-tube or any other substance.
  • Decomposition - To break down.
  • Slaked lime - Lime water Ca(OH)2​
  • Antioxidant - Prevents oxidation.
  • Precipitate - An insoluble substance which settles at the bottom of test tube in solid form.
  • Briskly - In an active, quick, or energetic way
  • Evolution - The giving off of a gaseous product
  • Coefficients - Constant quantity placed before and multiplying the variable in a reaction
  • Vigorous - Strong and full of energy
  • Liberated - Release (gas, energy, etc.) as a result of chemical reaction
  • Wafting - To pass gently through the air
  • Residue - A substance that remains after a process or reaction
  • Pungent - Having a sharply strong taste or smell
  • Fumes - An amount of gas or vapour that smells strongly or is dangerous to inhale
  • Electrodes - A conductor through which electricity enters or leaves an object
  • Invert - Put upside down or in the opposite position
  • Extraction - A way to separate a desired substance
  • Molten - Liquefied by heat
  • Acquires - To obtain
  • Retarded - Delay or hold back in terms of progress

7.0Memory Map

On this page


  • 1.0Introduction
  • 1.1Physical changes
  • 1.2Chemical changes
  • 2.0Chemical reaction and its characteristics
  • 2.1Active Chemistry 1
  • 2.2Active Chemistry 2
  • 2.3Active Chemistry 3
  • 2.3.1Characteristics of chemical reactions
  • 3.0Writing a chemical equation
  • 3.1Word equation
  • 3.2Chemical equation
  • 3.3Rules for writing a chemical equation
  • 4.0Types of chemical reactions
  • 4.1(i) Combination Reaction
  • 4.2Active Chemistry 4
  • 4.3(ii) Decomposition Reaction
  • 4.4Active Chemistry 5
  • 4.5Active Chemistry 6
  • 4.6Active Chemistry 7
  • 4.7Active Chemistry 8
  • 4.8(iii) Displacement reactions
  • 4.8.1Relative reactivity of metals
  • 4.9Active Chemistry 9
  • 4.9.1Relative reactivity of some non-metals
  • 4.9.2Some more examples of displacement reactions.
  • 4.10Active Chemistry 10
  • 4.11(v) Oxidation and reduction reactions
  • 4.12Active Chemistry 11
  • 4.13Memory map
  • 5.0Corrosion
  • 5.1Rust
  • 5.1.1Some more examples of corrosion
  • 5.2Rancidity
  • 5.2.1Prevention of rancidity
  • 6.0Basic terminology
  • 7.0Memory Map

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