Chemical Reactions and Equations Mind Map

Oxidation is a change in which a substance gains oxygen, loses hydrogen, or loses electrons.

In an exam answer, mention both the oxygen-based idea and the electron-based idea when possible.

Reduction is a change in which a substance loses oxygen, gains hydrogen, or gains electrons.

If oxygen is removed from a compound, write reduction confidently and then support it with the reason.

A combination reaction is a reaction in which two or more substances combine to form one product.

Check the number of products first. If one product forms from multiple reactants, combination is likely.

A decomposition reaction is a reaction in which one compound breaks into two or more simpler substances.

Look for one compound on the left and more than one product on the right.

A displacement reaction is a reaction in which a more reactive element pushes out a less reactive element from its compound.

Always compare reactivity before naming the reaction. Without reactivity, displacement cannot be decided.

A double displacement reaction is a reaction in which two compounds exchange ions to form two new compounds.

If two solutions are mixed and ions swap partners, check whether a precipitate forms.

A precipitation reaction is a reaction in which an insoluble solid called a precipitate forms from solutions.

If a question mentions a solid settling down or a cloudy mixture, think precipitate.

A redox reaction is a reaction in which oxidation and reduction happen at the same time.

If one substance is oxidized, check which other substance is reduced in the same reaction.

Corrosion is the slow damage of a metal by air, moisture, or other substances around it.

If the question asks why rusting speeds up, mention both air and moisture clearly.

Rancidity is the bad smell and bad taste that develop in fats and oils when they oxidize.

If the question mentions stale smell, bad taste, or oily food kept open, think rancidity.