🔬 Science · Matter & Materials

Types of Chemical Reaction

Identify and describe four types of chemical reaction: combustion (burning in oxygen), oxidation (gain of oxygen), thermal decomposition (breaking down by heat), and displacement (more reactive metal replaces less reactive one)

Typical age: 12–13 years

“If your child saw iron going rusty and a candle burning, could they explain what type of chemical reaction is happening in each case — and write a simple word equation for one of them?”

0 / 4 mastered

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Needs first

Physical vs Chemical ChangesREQUIRED
Types of chemical reaction are specific categories of chemical change — the physical/chemical distinction must come first
Metals vs Non-Metals
Displacement reactions require understanding that metals differ in reactivity — metal properties provide the context

Unlocks next

Acid Reactions & Salts
Acid reactions are specific examples of chemical reaction types (neutralisation, displacement)
Reactions That Release or Absorb Heat
Energy changes are a property of chemical reactions — understanding reaction types gives context
The Reactivity SeriesREQUIRED
Displacement reactions are a key application of the reactivity series — reaction types must be understood first