16. What type of chemical reaction is represented by the balanced chemical equation below? Ag(NO3) + NaCl -> AgCl + Na(NO3)
Answer: A
Double Replacement
The balanced chemical equation Ag(NO3) + NaCl -> AgCl + Na(NO3) represents a double replacement reaction, where two compounds exchange ions to form two new compounds.
A) Double Replacement
This option is correct because the reaction involves the exchange of ions between silver nitrate (Ag(NO3)) and sodium chloride (NaCl), resulting in the formation of silver chloride (AgCl) and sodium nitrate (Na(NO3)). Such exchanges are characteristic of double replacement reactions.
B) Combustion
This option is incorrect as combustion reactions typically involve a substance reacting with oxygen to produce heat and light, resulting in products such as carbon dioxide and water. The given reaction does not fit this definition.
C) Decomposition
This option is incorrect because decomposition reactions involve a single compound breaking down into two or more simpler substances. The provided equation does not exhibit this behavior, as it involves two reactants forming two different products.
D) Replacement
This option is incorrect as replacement reactions typically refer to single replacement reactions where one element displaces another in a compound. The reaction presented is a double replacement, not a single replacement, hence this option does not apply.
Conclusion
The correct answer, double replacement, is confirmed as the reaction involves the swapping of ions between the reactants to form new products. All other options fail to accurately describe the nature of the chemical reaction taking place, demonstrating a clear distinction in reaction types.