Introduction:
We have already discussed that in order for single replacement reactions
to occur, the metal added must be more "active" than the metal ion in solution.
Double replacement reactions only take place if one of the following are formed:
a gas, new water molecules, or a precipitate. If both products are aqueous then
no chemical change has occurred (“N.R.”). In this experiment, we will carry out a
number of single and double replacement reactions and observe any new
substances produced by a chemical change.
Procedure/Data/Questions:
Note: Write total molecular equations first to predict what you should see.
Should you see bubbles, a precipitate, nothing, etc.? Before you mix the
reactants, think about the atoms, ions, or molecules present and what is going to
happen to them. Do the symbols in your equation accurately describe what you
are seeing? The more you actively think about reactions the easier it will be to
understand and write chemical equations. If you predict that a flammable gas
should be produced then you can do a flammability test. Precipitates can be
tested by spinning them down in the centrifuge. I want to check off your total
molecular equations before you mix.