UNIT 6

      For the past couple of weeks in Accelerated Chemistry, we went over a few new topics that really seemed to come naturally to me and most of my classmates. These topics are: balancing chemical equations, learning the different types of reactions, and deciphering the activity series to explain any sort of chemical reaction.
      The first main topic, learning how to accurately balance chemical equations, came fairly natural to me. After figuring out the three different types of solids (Ionic, Molecular, and) and writing a correct formula, you need to count up the number of each individual molecules. Once this is figured out, numbers need to be added (sometimes) in front of the element or compound, multiplying each atom by the said number. This is used frequently to make sure the particle count is even on both sides. Once this is true, the equation is balanced, and you are free to go on your merry own way.
      Secondly, we worked with identifying reaction types, as follows.

1.Synthesis or Combination
When two or more elements or compounds combine to create 1 new compound as a product.
EX: Cu+S --> CuS
2.Decomposition
When one compound splits to create 2 or more elements.
EX: 2H20 --> 2H2+O2
3.Single Replacement
Starting with one element and one compound, either the metals or nonmetals switch places over the reactant sign.
EX: 2Al+3CuCl2 --> 2AlCl3+3Cu
4.Double Replacement
Starting with two compounds, either the metals or nonmetals switch places over the reactant sign.
EX: 2KI+Pb(NO3)2 --> 2KNO3+PbI
5.Combustion
A hydrocarbon plus oxygen creates carbon dioxide and water vapor
EX: C2H5OH+3O2 --> 2CO2+3H2O

This picture shows copper wire in a silver nitrate solution after one day. The slight blue color is coming from the formation of Copper nitrate, and the abnormal growth on the wire is Silver in a solid form, implying that a single replacement has occurred.

      Lastly, we were given a chance to experience the activity series. Long story short, it is a list of all of the metals and nonmetals going from highest activity at the top, being most combustible, to the lowest activity at the bottom, being the least reactive. We did a few experiments and were able to somewhat predict beforehand if a reaction was going to occur or not.

Overall, I learn a good amount in this unit, and it has definitely strengthened my knowledge for balancing and writing equations overall, since I have learned a little about this subject in my past chemistry class experiments. I had a good time with the countless number of simple experiments, which was a great way to start out my day. Thanks Mr. G!