Giving one example of each, differentiate between a displacement reaction and a double displacement reaction.
Generated by claude-sonnet-4-6 · 2026-06-14 10:28 · grounding rag
Model Answer
Displacement Reaction: A more reactive element displaces a less reactive element from its compound.
Example: $\text{Fe} + \text{CuSO}_4 \rightarrow \text{FeSO}_4 + \text{Cu}$
Double Displacement Reaction: Two compounds exchange ions to form two new compounds.
Example: $\text{Na}_2\text{SO}_4 + \text{BaCl}_2 \rightarrow \text{BaSO}_4\downarrow + 2\text{NaCl}$
Source: Chapter 1, Sections 1.2.3 & 1.2.4
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Explanation
- Give one definition + one equation for each type — that covers both marks.
- Examiners look for the key distinction: in displacement, one element replaces another; in double displacement, two ionic groups/atoms are exchanged between two compounds.
- Always include state symbols (↓ for precipitate) where relevant — it shows understanding and can earn bonus credit.