5 Types of Chemical Reactions

There are thousands of different types of chemical reactions. Instead of trying to memorize all of them we will focus on 5 of them.

Remember from Biology class that photosynthesis is the process that plants use to make glucose? Photo means "light" and synthesis means "to make", so photosynthesis means "to make from light".

There are other types of synthesis. In general a synthesis reaction combines multiple chemicals together.

Decomposition is the opposite of synthesis. It occurs when one chemical is split into two or more parts.

We can think of this type of reaction as a "partner swap". Two chemicals swap cations and anions forming two new compounds.

Combustion is most commonly associated with engines, such as in cars, planes, boats, etc.

Combustion reactions have specific components. Oxygen and a fuel source are always reactants. Water and carbon dioxide are always products.