Chemical Reactions Lab
Introduction
Four different types of chemical reactions were observed in this lab. Synthesis reactions occur when two different elements or compounds form a more complex compound as shown by equation (1). Single replacement occurs when one element replaces another to form a new compound as shown in equation (2). Double replacement occurs when two different atoms in different compounds trade places with one another to form two new compounds as shown in equation (3).Combustion occurs when hydrocarbons combine with oxygen to produce water and carbon dioxide both in the form of a gas as shown in equation (4). When performing a chemical reaction, changes such as gas formation, precipitate, color change, and temperature change are observed. If any of the reactions above are observed it is known that a reaction has taken place.
(1)
A + B >AB
(2)
A + BC>AC + B
(3)
AB + CD>AD + CB
(4)
Hydrocarbon + O2>CO2 + H2O
Experimental
In this synthesis reaction, a small piece of copper wire was obtained. The copper wire was held with crucible tongs over a bunsen burner and the reaction 2Cu + O2>2CuO was observed. In the second synthesis reaction, a small piece of magnesium ribbon was held over a bunsen burner with crucible tongs. After the reaction 2Mg + O2>2MgO was…
When the magnesium ribbon was ignited sparks started to develop around the top of the strip. After the sparks appeared, the piece of ribbon was placed in a dish to watch the reaction of a very bright light. These same results were achieved by our instructor.The second synthesis reaction was between a piece of copper wire and the oxygen in the air. The piece of copper wire was held with crucible tongs and held over the flame of a bunsen burner. Changes in appearance such as the copper wire turning silver and then slightly red around the edges were observed and…