In this video we determine the type of chemical reaction for the equation H2SO4 + Zn = ZnSO4 + H2 (Sulfuric acid (dilute) + Zinc). Since we have a metal replacing another metal the type of reaction for H2SO4 + Zn = ZnSO4 + H2 a single displacement reaction (also called a “single replacement” reaction). Single replacement reactions follow the general form of:

A + BC → B + AC

A and B must be either different metals or halogens (Group 17 on the periodic table).

For example, NaBr + Cl2 = NaCl + Br2 or Mg + CuSO4 → MgSO4 + Cu.

To determine if a single displacement reaction will take place, we need to look at the reactivity of the elements involved in an Activity Series table. The table is organized form the least to most reactive. More reactive elements will replace less reactive elements in a single replacement reaction. For this reaction, H2SO4 + Zn = ZnSO4 + H2, the reaction does take place.

Finally, note that all single replacement reactions are also reduction-oxidation reactions (redox reactions) as well.

---Type of Reactions---

Synthesis (Combination): A + B → AB
Decomposition: AB → A + B
Single Replacement : A + BC → B + AC
Double Replacement: AB + CD → AD + BC
Combustion: CxHy + O2 → CO2 + H2O
Neutralization: HX + MOH → MX + H2O
Reduction-Oxidation (Redox): Electrons are exchanged. Many of the above reactions are also redox.
Endothermic and Exothermic: Reactions that take in (endo) or give off heat (exo).
It is not necessary to balance H2SO4 + Zn = ZnSO4 + H2 in order to determine the type of reaction, although it makes more sense with the equation is balanced.

Being able to determine the type of reaction by looking at reactants can help in predicting the outcome of the chemical reaction.

For more chemistry help with classifying types of reactions like Sulfuric acid (dilute) + Zinc and other chemistry topics, visit www.Breslyn.org

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