Basic Principles

Chemical reactions involve the breaking and forming of bonds between atoms, resulting in new substances with different properties. These transformations follow conservation of mass, where the total number of atoms remains constant before and after reaction. Energy changes accompany reactions, either releasing heat (exothermic) or absorbing it (endothermic). Reaction rates depend on factors including temperature, concentration, and catalyst presence.

Types of Reactions

Chemical reactions fall into several categories. Synthesis reactions combine elements to form compounds, while decomposition breaks compounds into simpler substances. Single and double displacement reactions involve exchanges of elements between compounds. Oxidation-reduction reactions transfer electrons between species, playing crucial roles in biological processes and battery technology.

Environmental Conditions

Temperature, pressure, and concentration affect reaction rates and equilibrium. Higher temperatures typically increase reaction speeds by providing more energy for molecular collisions. Catalysts speed reactions by lowering activation energy without being consumed. Understanding these factors enables control of industrial processes and biological reactions essential for life. Shutdown123