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  • Single Displacement Reactions: Definition, Examples & Explanation
    The type of reaction where one compound takes the place of another is called a single displacement reaction or a single replacement reaction.

    Here's a breakdown:

    * Single displacement reactions involve a more reactive element displacing a less reactive element from a compound.

    * The general form of this reaction is: A + BC → AC + B

    Example:

    Zinc metal (Zn) reacts with hydrochloric acid (HCl) to form zinc chloride (ZnCl₂) and hydrogen gas (H₂):

    Zn + 2HCl → ZnCl₂ + H₂

    In this reaction, the more reactive zinc (Zn) displaces the less reactive hydrogen (H) from the hydrochloric acid (HCl) molecule.

    Key points about single displacement reactions:

    * The more reactive element will always be the one that displaces the less reactive element.

    * These reactions are often used in the production of metals and other substances.

    * You can predict whether a single displacement reaction will occur by using the activity series of metals.

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