Single-displacement (replacement) reactions

Definition

A single-displacement (replacement) reaction is a type of chemical reaction where an element reacts with a compound, displacing another element from it. The general form is $A + BC \rightarrow AC + B$.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Single-displacement reactions can be classified into two types: cationic and anionic displacement.
2. These reactions often occur in aqueous solutions where ions are free to move.
3. The reactivity series of metals helps predict whether a single-displacement reaction will occur.
4. In these reactions, a more reactive element displaces a less reactive one from its compound.
5. Single-displacement reactions are typically redox reactions, involving the transfer of electrons.

Review Questions

• What is the general form of a single-displacement (replacement) reaction?
• How does the reactivity series influence single-displacement reactions?
• Why are single-displacement reactions considered redox reactions?

Related terms

Reactivity Series: A list of elements ordered by their ability to displace other elements in chemical reactions.

Redox Reaction: A chemical reaction involving the transfer of electrons between two species.

Double-Displacement Reaction: $AB + CD \rightarrow AD + CB$; A type of reaction where parts of two compounds swap places to form two new compounds.