A synthesis reaction (also called a combination reaction) is a type of chemical reaction in which two or more simple substances combine to form a single, more complex compound.
It is essentially the opposite of a decomposition reaction. These reactions often release energy and are common in both nature and industry.
General idea:
- Two elements can combine to form a compound.
- An element and a compound can combine to form a new compound.
- Two compounds can also combine to form a larger compound.
Examples of synthesis reactions:
- Hydrogen (H₂) + Oxygen (O₂) → Water (H₂O)
- Iron (Fe) + Sulfur (S) → Iron sulfide (FeS)
- Carbon dioxide (CO₂) + Water (H₂O) → Glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) in photosynthesis
Key features of synthesis reactions:
- They start with two or more reactants and produce one product.
- They are essential in forming compounds from elements.
- They often occur with the release of heat or light.
In short, a synthesis reaction is when simple substances come together to build a more complex substance.