Diagram Based Questions: Chemical Reactions and Equations
Q1: Answer the following questions based on the diagram given below:

(i) What is the purpose of burning a magnesium ribbon in air in this experiment?
(ii) Describe the appearance of the magnesium ribbon before it is burnt.
(iii) What happens to the magnesium ribbon when it is burnt in air?
(iv) How is magnesium oxide collected in this experiment?
(v) Write the balanced chemical equation for the reaction that takes place when magnesium burns in air.
(ii) Before burning, the magnesium ribbon appears as a shiny, silver-colored metal strip.
(iii) When the magnesium ribbon is burnt in air, it reacts with oxygen to form magnesium oxide. During this reaction, the magnesium ribbon glows brightly and produces a white powder (magnesium oxide).
(iv) Magnesium oxide is collected in a watch-glass. It is the white powder that forms on the surface of the watch-glass as a result of the reaction between magnesium and oxygen.

(i) What is the chemical reaction that occurs when dilute sulfuric acid reacts with zinc?
(ii) How can we test the presence of hydrogen gas during this experiment?
(iii) What is the role of zinc in this reaction?
(iv) Why do we use dilute sulfuric acid in this experiment instead of concentrated sulfuric acid?
(v) What is the significance of the "↑" symbol in the chemical equation for this reaction?
(ii) To test the presence of hydrogen gas, you can bring a burning splint near the mouth of the test tube where the reaction is happening. If you hear a "pop" sound and see a flame, it indicates the presence of hydrogen gas.
(iii) Zinc acts as a reducing agent in this reaction. It donates electrons to hydrogen ions in sulfuric acid, leading to the production of hydrogen gas.
(iv) We use dilute sulfuric acid because it is safer and less reactive than concentrated sulfuric acid. Concentrated sulfuric acid is highly corrosive and can produce a vigorous reaction with zinc, making it

(i) What are the reactants in the experiment for the formation of slaked lime?
(ii) Describe the appearance of calcium oxide (CaO) before the reaction with water.
(iii) What is the chemical formula of the product formed in this experiment, and what is its common name?
(iv) Explain how the appearance of the mixture changes during the reaction between calcium oxide and water.
(v) Why is the formation of slaked lime considered a combination reaction?
(ii) Calcium oxide appears as a white, powdery substance before the reaction with water.
(iii) The chemical formula of the product formed is calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2), and its common name is slaked lime.
(iv) During the reaction, the mixture changes from a white, powdery substance (calcium oxide) to a thick, white, and pasty substance (slaked lime or calcium hydroxide).

(i) What is the purpose of heating the boiling tube containing crystals of ferrous sulfate in this experiment?
(ii) What is the appearance of ferrous sulfate crystals before heating, and how does it change after heating?
(iii) Why is it important to observe the odor during this experiment?
(iv) Describe the odor you would expect when heating ferrous sulfate crystals, and explain the chemical reaction responsible for it.
(v) How would you test the presence of sulfur dioxide gas in this experiment?
(ii) Before heating, the ferrous sulfate crystals are usually green in color. After heating, they turn white and lose their water of crystallization.
(iii) Odor observation helps identify the presence of sulfur dioxide gas, which is released when ferrous sulfate is heated.
(iv) The odor would be of burning sulfur or a pungent, rotten egg smell. This is due to the decomposition of ferrous sulfate, which releases sulfur dioxide gas (SO2) when heated.

(i) What is the initial substance in the experiment shown in Figure?
(ii) What is the evidence that a chemical reaction has occurred during heating?
(iii) Write the chemical equation for the thermal decomposition of lead nitrate.
(iv) What is the role of heat in this experiment?
(v) Why is it important to use tongs while heating the boiling tube?
(ii) The evidence of a chemical reaction is the emission of brown fumes, which are identified as nitrogen dioxide (NO2). This indicates that a chemical change has taken place.
(iv) Heat is used as an energy source to break the chemical bonds in lead nitrate (Pb(NO3)2). This process, known as thermal decomposition, results in the formation of lead oxide (PbO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and oxygen (O2).

(i) Describe the setup of the experiment where iron nails are dipped in copper sulfate solution.
(ii) What is the initial color of the copper sulfate solution, and what happens to it as the experiment proceeds?
(iii) Explain the chemical reaction that occurs when iron nails are dipped in copper sulfate solution.
(iv) What is the solid substance that forms on the surface of the iron nails during the experiment?
(v) How can you confirm the presence of copper in the final solution after the experiment?
(ii) Initially, the copper sulfate solution is blue in color. As the experiment proceeds, the blue color of the solution starts to fade, and the solution turns greenish due to the formation of a new compound.
(iv) A reddish-brown solid substance, which is copper, forms on the surface of the iron nails during the experiment. This is a visible result of the displacement reaction taking place.

(i) What is the initial color of the copper wire before the oxidation experiment?
(ii) Describe the changes in the color of the copper wire after it undergoes oxidation.
(iii) Explain the role of heat in the oxidation of copper.
(iv) What type of chemical reaction is observed during the oxidation of copper?
(v) Why is the copper wire cleaned before the experiment?
(ii) After oxidation, the copper wire turns black due to the formation of copper oxide.
(iii) Heat is necessary for the oxidation of copper. It provides the energy required for copper atoms to react with oxygen in the air and form copper oxide.
(iv) The oxidation of copper is a chemical reaction called a redox reaction, where copper atoms lose electrons and combine with oxygen to form copper oxide.
(v) The copper wire is cleaned before the experiment to remove any impurities, such as grease or dirt, that might hinder the oxidation process and to ensure accurate observations during the experiment.
Q8: Answer the following questions based on the diagram given below:

(i) Identify the chemical change when silver chloride is left exposed to sunlight.
(ii) Write balanced chemical reaction for product produced.
(iii) What type of chemical reaction is observed in this change ?
Ans: (i) Silver chloride is white in color. When exposed to sunlight, silver chloride absorbs sunlight and produces silver metal and chlorine gas. Hence the white color changes to greyish.
(ii) 2AgCl ----> 2Ag + Cl2
(iii) Type of the chemical reaction is photolytic decomposition reaction or photolysis.
Case Based Questions: Chemical Reactions and Equations
Q1: Read the source below and answer the questions that follow:
Shruti performed an experiment in the laboratory where she burned a magnesium ribbon in the presence of oxygen. She noticed that the ribbon burned with a bright white flame and a white powder was formed as a product.
- Remove the oxide layer on its surface.
- Ensure a better reaction with oxygen.
Q2: Read the source below and answer the questions that follow:
Aryan took a few zinc granules in a test tube and added dilute sulphuric acid to it. He noticed the formation of bubbles and felt the test tube becoming warm. He then passed the gas through a soap solution and found that bubbles were formed, which burst with a 'pop' sound.
- Bringing a burning matchstick near the bubbles.
- A 'pop' sound confirms the presence of hydrogen gas.
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Q3: Read the source below and answer the questions that follow:
A chemistry teacher demonstrated an experiment where she heated ferrous sulfate crystals in a test tube. The green crystals changed color, and a brownish solid was formed along with the release of two gases that had a pungent smell.

OR
Q4: Read the source below and answer the questions that follow:
Raj noticed that an old iron gate in his backyard had turned reddish-brown after being exposed to the air for a long time. He asked his teacher about this phenomenon, and she explained that it was a chemical reaction called rusting.
- Applying paint or oil on iron surfaces to prevent contact with oxygen and moisture.
- Galvanization, i.e., coating iron with a layer of zinc to prevent oxidation.
Also read: Infographics: Chemical Equations |
Q5: Read the source below and answer the questions that follow:
In a chemistry practical, Mansi mixed solutions of barium chloride (BaCl₂) and sodium sulfate (Na₂SO₄) in a test tube. She observed the formation of a white precipitate in the solution.
Q6: Read the source below and answer the questions that follow:
During a construction project, workers added quicklime (CaO) to water to prepare mortar. Rahul, a student observing this, noticed that the mixture released heat and became warm as the reaction proceeded.
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Q7: Read the source below and answer the questions that follow:
A science teacher demonstrated an experiment where she passed electricity through water containing a few drops of acid. After a few minutes, gases were collected in two test tubes, and the volume of one gas was twice that of the other.

OR
Q8: Read the source below and answer the questions that follow:
Anjali noticed that an old iron fence in her neighborhood had developed reddish-brown patches over time. She also observed that some iron objects in her kitchen remained unaffected by rusting.
- Oxygen must be present.
- Moisture (water) is essential.
(c) Rusting can be prevented by:
- Galvanization (coating iron with zinc)
- Painting or oiling iron surfaces
Also read: Infographics: Chemical Equations |
Q9: Read the source below and answer the questions that follow:
Ravi observed a gas stove in his kitchen and wondered about the reaction taking place when the gas burned with a blue flame. He learned that methane (CH₄) is the main component of natural gas, which reacts with oxygen to produce energy.
Q10: Read the source below and answer the questions that follow:
Rohan performed an experiment by dipping an iron nail in a beaker containing copper sulfate (CuSO₄) solution. After some time, he observed that the blue color of the solution faded, and a reddish-brown coating appeared on the nail.
Infographics: Chemical Equations

Visual Worksheet: Chemical Equations
(B) What is observed when silver chloride is exposed to sunlight? Give the type of reaction involved.
Note: This is a key question and often appears in exams-understand it well.
Ans: (A) 

(B) 
Ans: 3BaCl2 + Al2(SO4)3 → 2AICI3 + 3BaSO4

Q7: The emission of brown fumes in the given experimental set-up is due to:

Note: This is a key question and often appears in exams-understand it well.

Thus, the correct answer is (a) thermal decomposition of lead nitrate which produces brown fumes of nitrogen dioxide.
Q8: What happens when food materials containing fats and oils are left for a long time? List two observable changes and suggest three ways by which this phenomenon can be prevented.
Ans: Food materials containing fats and oils change when left for a long time due to a process called rancidity. This occurs when air interacts with these substances, affecting their smell and taste. The observable changes include:
- The food develops an unpleasant smell.
- The taste of the food becomes off or stale.
To prevent rancidity, consider these methods:
- Vacuum packing to limit air exposure.
- Refrigeration to slow down oxidation.
- Storing food away from direct sunlight to reduce heat exposure.
Q9: Study the figure given below and answer the following questions:

Note: This is a key question and often appears in exams-understand it well.
(D) The reaction does not occur without dilute sulphuric acid because:- Water is a poor conductor of electricity.
- Adding sulphuric acid improves conductivity, allowing the reaction to proceed.

Q14: In the experimental setup given below, it is observed that on passing the gas produced in the reaction in the solution 'X' the solution 'X' first turns milky and then colourless.

Note: This is a key question and often appears in exams-understand it well.


Ans:
(ii) When the aqueous solutions of two ionic compounds react by exchanging their ions/radicals, to form two or more new compounds such that one of the products formed is an insoluble salt, and hence forms precipitate, the double displacement reaction is said to be precipitation reaction. When lead nitrate solution is mixed with potassium iodide solution, a yellow precipitate is formed. This reaction is a precipitation reaction and can be expressed as follows:
Important Topics for Preparation
Based on the analysis, the following topics are critical for CBSE Class 10 students preparing for "Chemical Reactions and Equations":
Types of Chemical Reactions
1. Combination: Understand reactions forming a single producte.g., CaO + H₂O → Ca(OH)₂2. Decomposition: Focus on:
Thermal: FeSO₄ → Fe₂O₃ + SO₂ + SO₃
Photochemical: AgCl → Ag + Cl₂
Electrolytic: 2H₂O → 2H₂ + O₂
3. Displacement: Learn the reactivity series to predict outcomese.g., Zn + CuSO₄ → ZnSO₄ + Cu4. Double Displacement / Precipitation: Identify precipitatese.g., Pb(NO₃)₂ + 2KI → PbI₂↓ + 2KNO₃
2. Decomposition: Focus on:
Thermal: FeSO₄ → Fe₂O₃ + SO₂ + SO₃
Photochemical: AgCl → Ag + Cl₂
Electrolytic: 2H₂O → 2H₂ + O₂
5. Balancing Chemical Equations
Practice balancing equations to follow the law of conservation of massExamples:Al₂O₃ + HCl → AlCl₃ + H₂O
Zn(NO₃)₂ → ZnO + NO₂ + O₂
Al₂O₃ + HCl → AlCl₃ + H₂O
Zn(NO₃)₂ → ZnO + NO₂ + O₂
6. Redox Reactions
Oxidation: Loss of electrons / gain of oxygen
Reduction: Gain of electrons / loss of oxygen
- Identify oxidizing and reducing agentse.g., CO in Fe₂O₃ + 3CO → 2Fe + 3CO₂
Oxidation: Loss of electrons / gain of oxygen
Reduction: Gain of electrons / loss of oxygen
- Identify oxidizing and reducing agentse.g., CO in Fe₂O₃ + 3CO → 2Fe + 3CO₂
7. Exothermic vs. Endothermic Reactions
- Exothermic: Releases heate.g., CaO + H₂O → Ca(OH)₂ + heat
- Endothermic: Absorbs heate.g., NH₄Cl dissolving in water
- Exothermic: Releases heate.g., CaO + H₂O → Ca(OH)₂ + heat
- Endothermic: Absorbs heate.g., NH₄Cl dissolving in water
8. Observable Changes
Memorize common reaction observations:
Color changes: AgCl (white to grey), CuSO₄ (blue to colorless)
Precipitates: PbI₂ (yellow), BaSO₄ (white)
Gas evolution: NO₂ (brown fumes), H₂ (bubbles)
Temperature changes: Warm (exothermic), cold (endothermic)
Memorize common reaction observations:
Color changes: AgCl (white to grey), CuSO₄ (blue to colorless)
Precipitates: PbI₂ (yellow), BaSO₄ (white)
Gas evolution: NO₂ (brown fumes), H₂ (bubbles)
Temperature changes: Warm (exothermic), cold (endothermic)
9. Electrolysis of Water
Understand the setup, use of acid as an electrolyte, and the 2:1 volume ratio of H₂:O₂
Understand the setup, use of acid as an electrolyte, and the 2:1 volume ratio of H₂:O₂
10. Practical-Based Questions
- Be ready to describe setups and observations:e.g.,
Heating lead nitrate → Brown NO₂ fumes, yellow PbO residue
Electrolysis of water → H₂ and O₂ collection
- Be ready to describe setups and observations:e.g.,
Heating lead nitrate → Brown NO₂ fumes, yellow PbO residue
Electrolysis of water → H₂ and O₂ collection
11. Reactivity Series
Memorize the order: K, Na, Ca, Mg, Al, Zn, Fe, Pb, Cu, Ag
- Use it to predict displacement reactionse.g., Mg displaces Cu; Cu cannot displace Fe
Memorize the order: K, Na, Ca, Mg, Al, Zn, Fe, Pb, Cu, Ag
- Use it to predict displacement reactionse.g., Mg displaces Cu; Cu cannot displace Fe
Visual Worksheet: Balancing Chemical Equations
NCERT Based Activity
CAUTION: This Activity needs the teacher's assistance. It would be better if students wear suitable eyeglasses.
- Clean a magnesium ribbon about 3-4 cm long by rubbing it with sandpaper.
- Hold it with a pair of tongs. Burn it using a spirit lamp or burner and collect the ash so formed in a watch-glass as shown in Fig. . Burn the magnesium ribbon keeping it away as far as possible from your eyes.
- What do you observe?

Observations:
- The magnesium ribbon burns with a bright, intense white light.
- A white ash is formed during the burning process which is magnesium oxide (MgO).
- The burning process releases a lot of heat and light, indicating a highly exothermic reaction.
- The magnesium ribbon may sparkle during the burning due to the high temperature.
Chemical Reaction occured is : 2Mg(s)+O2(g)→2MgO(s)
Magnesium + Oxygen → Magnesium oxide
(Reactants) (Product)
Explanation:
- Magnesium (Mg) reacts with oxygen (O₂) from the air.
- The reaction is highly exothermic, meaning it releases a large amount of heat and light.
- Magnesium oxide (MgO) is formed as a white solid ash.
Activity 1.2: Reaction between Lead Nitrate and Potassium Iodide
- Take lead nitrate solution in a test tube.
- Add potassium iodide solution to this.
- What do you observe?
Observation: A yellow precipitate of lead iodide (PbI2) forms immediately.
Chemical Reaction: Pb(NO3)2 (aq)+2KI(aq)→PbI2 (s)+2KNO3(aq)
Explanation:
- Lead nitrate (Pb(NO3)2) reacts with potassium iodide (KI) to form lead iodide (PbI2) as a yellow precipitate and potassium nitrate (KNO₃) in solution.
- This is an example of a double displacement reaction or a precipitation reaction, where an insoluble product (PbI2) is formed when two aqueous solutions are mixed.
Activity 1.3: Reaction of Zinc with Dilute Hydrochloric Acid or Sulphuric Acid
- Take a few zinc granules in a conical flask or a test tube.
- Add dilute hydrochloric acid or sulphuric acid to this (Fig.). CAUTION: Handle the acid with care.
- Do you observe anything happening around the zinc granules?
- Touch the conical flask or test tube. Is there any change in its temperature?

Observation:
- When the acid is added to the zinc granules, bubbles of gas are produced around the zinc.
- The gas is hydrogen gas (H₂), which is released as a result of the reaction between zinc and the acid.
The reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases heat. When you touch the conical flask or test tube, you will feel that it has become warm or hot.
Chemical Reaction:
Zn (s)+2HCl(aq)→ZnCl2 (aq)+H2(g)
or
Zn (s)+H2SO4(aq)→ZnSO4 (aq)+H2(g)
Explanation:
- Zinc reacts with the dilute acid (HCl or H2SO4) to form zinc chloride (ZnCl2) or zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) in solution, and hydrogen gas (H2) is produced.
- The production of hydrogen gas and the release of heat indicate that the reaction is exothermic.
This activity demonstrates an example of a single displacement reaction and helps to understand the concept of exothermic reactions.
Activity 1.4 : Reaction of Calcium Oxide (Quick Lime) with Water
- Take a small amount of calcium oxide or quick lime in a beaker.
- Slowly add water to this.
- Touch the beaker as shown in.
- Do you feel any change in temperature?

Observation:
When water is added to calcium oxide, you will observe that the beaker becomes very hot.
This indicates that the reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases heat.
Chemical Reaction: CaO (s)+H2O (l)→Ca(OH)2 (aq)
Explanation:
- Calcium oxide (quick lime) reacts with water to form calcium hydroxide (slaked lime), releasing a significant amount of heat during the process.
- The heat released is enough to make the beaker feel hot to the touch, demonstrating the exothermic nature of the reaction.
This reaction is an example of a combination reaction and shows how water and calcium oxide react to produce calcium hydroxide while releasing heat.
Activity 1.5: Heating of Ferrous Sulphate Crystals
- Take about 2 g ferrous sulphate crystals in a dry boiling tube.
- Note the colour of the ferrous sulphate crystals.
- Heat the boiling tube over the flame of a burner or spirit lamp as shown in Fig.
- Observe the colour of the crystals after heating.

Observation:
- Initially, the ferrous sulphate crystals are green.
- After heating, the colour changes to brown.
- This change is due to the formation of ferric oxide (Fe₂O₃) and the release of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and sulfur trioxide (SO₃) gases.
Chemical Reaction: 
Explanation:
- When ferrous sulphate is heated, it undergoes decomposition to form ferric oxide (Fe₂O₃), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), and sulfur trioxide (SO₃).
- The green color of ferrous sulphate (FeSO₄) is due to the presence of Fe²⁺ ions, and upon heating, it is oxidized to form ferric oxide (Fe₂O₃), which is brown.
- This is an example of a thermal decomposition reaction.
This activity demonstrates the decomposition of ferrous sulphate when heated and the change in color as a result of the chemical reaction.
Activity 1.6 : Heating of Lead Nitrate
- Take about 2 g lead nitrate powder in a boiling tube.
- Hold the boiling tube with a pair of tongs and heat it over a flame, as shown in Fig.
- What do you observe? Note down the change, if any.

- Upon heating, lead nitrate undergoes decomposition and decomposes into lead monoxide (PbO), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and oxygen gas (O₂).
- A yellow color appears in the boiling tube due to the formation of lead monoxide (PbO).
- You will also observe brown fumes of nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) being released.
- Oxygen gas is released during the reaction.
Chemical Reaction: 
Explanation:
- Lead nitrate decomposes when heated to form lead monoxide (PbO), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and oxygen (O₂).
- The brown fumes are due to the formation of nitrogen dioxide, a toxic gas, which also gives a characteristic color.
- This is an example of a decomposition reaction where a single reactant (lead nitrate) breaks down into multiple products.
Safety Note: Ensure proper ventilation while performing this activity as nitrogen dioxide is toxic and can irritate the respiratory system.
Activity 1.7: Electrolysis of Water
- Take a plastic mug. Drill two holes at its base and fit rubber stoppers in these holes. Insert carbon electrodes in these rubber stoppers as shown in Fig.
- Connect these electrodes to a 6 volt battery.
- Fill the mug with water such that the electrodes are immersed. Add a few drops of dilute sulphuric acid to the water.
- Take two test tubes filled with water and invert them over the two carbon electrodes.
- Switch on the current and leave the apparatus undisturbed for some time.
- You will observe the formation of bubbles at both the electrodes. These bubbles displace water in the test tubes.
- Is the volume of the gas collected the same in both the test tubes?
- Once the test tubes are filled with the respective gases, remove them carefully.
- Test these gases one by one by bringing a burning candle close to the mouth of the test tubes. CAUTION: This step must be performed carefully by the teacher.
- What happens in each case?
- Which gas is present in each test tube?

Observation:
- You will observe bubbles forming at both electrodes.
- The gas collected at one electrode will extinguish the candle, while the gas collected at the other will cause the candle to burn more brightly.
- The volume of gas collected at the two electrodes will not be the same. The volume of gas collected at the anode will be half of that collected at the cathode.
Gas Testing:
- Gas at the cathode: When a burning candle is brought near the test tube, it produces a pop sound indicating its hydrogen gas.
- Gas at the anode: When a burning candle is brought near the test tube, It makes a burning splinter glow more brightly or relight indicating its oxygen gas.
Chemical Reaction: 
Explanation:
- This is an example of electrolysis of water, where water is split into hydrogen and oxygen gases due to the application of electric current.
- Hydrogen gas is produced at the cathode (negative electrode), and oxygen gas is produced at the anode (positive electrode).
Activity 1.8: Decomposition of Silver Chloride in Sunlight
- Take about 2 g silver chloride in a china dish.
- What is its colour?
- Place this china dish in sunlight for some time (Fig. ).
- Observe the colour of the silver chloride after some time.

Observation:
- Initially, the silver chloride is white.
- After exposing it to sunlight, the silver chloride turns grey.
- This color change occurs due to the decomposition of silver chloride into silver metal (Ag) and chlorine gas (Cl₂) when exposed to sunlight.
Chemical Reaction: 
Explanation:
- The decomposition reaction is driven by the energy from sunlight, which breaks down silver chloride into silver and chlorine gas.
- This is a classic example of a photochemical reaction.
Carry out the following Activity
Observation:
- When you touch the bottom of the test tube, you will feel that it is cold.
- This indicates that the reaction is absorbing heat from the surroundings.
Conclusion: The reaction between barium hydroxide and ammonium chloride is endothermic, as it absorbs heat from the surroundings, making the test tube feel cold.
Chemical Reaction: Ba(OH)₂ (s)+2NH₄Cl (s)→BaCl₂ (aq)+2NH₃ (g)+2H₂O (l)
Explanation: In this reaction, barium hydroxide reacts with ammonium chloride to form barium chloride, ammonia gas, and water. The absorption of heat during the reaction makes it an endothermic process.
- Take three iron nails and clean them by rubbing with sand paper.
- Take two test tubes marked as (A) and (B). In each test tube, take about 10 mL copper sulphate solution.
- Tie two iron nails with a thread and immerse them carefully in the copper sulphate solution in test tube B for about 20 minutes [Fig.(a)]. Keep one iron nail aside for comparison.

- After 20 minutes, take out the iron nails from the copper sulphate solution.
- Compare the intensity of the blue colour of copper sulphate solutions in test tubes (A) and (B) [Fig.(b)].
- Also, compare the colour of the iron nails dipped in the copper sulphate solution with the one kept aside [Fig.(b)]

- The copper sulfate solution in test tube A will maintain its blue color, while the solution in test tube B will show a decrease in blue intensity, as the copper ions (Cu²⁺) from the copper sulfate solution are displaced by iron ions (Fe²⁺) and copper metal is deposited on the iron nails.
- The iron nails in test tube B will appear to have a reddish-brown color due to the deposition of copper metal on the surface of the nails.
- The iron nail kept aside (in test tube A) will remain its original metallic color (grayish-silver).
Chemical Reaction: Fe (s)+CuSO₄ (aq)→FeSO₄ (aq)+Cu (s)
Explanation:
- This is an example of a displacement reaction. Iron (Fe) displaces copper (Cu) from copper sulfate (CuSO₄) because iron is more reactive than copper.
- During the reaction, copper ions (Cu²⁺) from the solution are reduced to copper metal (Cu), which gets deposited on the iron nails, while iron is oxidized to form iron sulfate (FeSO₄) in solution.
- The decrease in the blue color intensity of the copper sulfate solution indicates the displacement of copper ions by iron ions.
Activity 1.10 : Reaction between Sodium Sulphate and Barium Chloride
- Take about 3 mL of sodium sulphate solution in a test tube.
- In another test tube, take about 3 mL of barium chloride solution.
- Mix the two solutions (Fig.).
- What do you observe?
Formation of barium sulphate and sodium chloride
Observation:
- A white precipitate forms immediately when the two solutions are mixed.
- The precipitate is barium sulfate (BaSO₄), which is insoluble in water.
Chemical Reaction: Na₂SO₄ (aq)+BaCl₂ (aq)→BaSO₄ (s)+2NaCl (aq)
Explanation:
- This is an example of a precipitation reaction, where barium sulfate (BaSO₄) is formed as a solid precipitate due to the reaction between sodium sulfate (Na₂SO₄) and barium chloride (BaCl₂).
- The white color of the precipitate indicates the formation of barium sulfate, which is insoluble in water and precipitates out of the solution.
(ii) Chemical Reaction: Pb(NO3)2 (aq)+2KI(aq)→PbI2 (s)+2KNO3(aq)
(iii) Explanation:
- Lead nitrate (Pb(NO3)2) reacts with potassium iodide (KI) to form lead iodide (PbI2) as a yellow precipitate and potassium nitrate (KNO₃) in solution.
- This is an example of a double displacement reaction or a precipitation reaction, where an insoluble product (PbI2) is formed when two aqueous solutions are mixed.
Activity 1.11: Heating of Copper Powder
- Heat a china dish containing about 1 g copper powder (Fig.).
- What do you observe?

Observation:
- Upon heating, the copper powder does not undergo any significant change in appearance.
- Copper powder will remain its original reddish-brown color even after heating.
- No visible reaction or color change is observed because copper does not react with oxygen at low temperatures.
Explanation:
- Copper metal is generally unreactive with air at room temperature or under mild heating. However, if heated to a very high temperature, copper can react with oxygen to form copper oxide (CuO), which is black.
- Since copper is not heated to a high enough temperature in this activity, no change occurs during the heating process.
Balancing of Chemical Equations
2. Balance Aluminum (Al)
On the right, Al₂(SO₄)₃ has 2 Al atoms.
3. Balance Sulfate (SO₄)
4. Balance Copper (Cu)
On the left: 3 Cu atoms (from 3CuSO₄).
5. Verify
Al: 2 (LHS) = 2 (RHS)
Cu: 3 (LHS) = 3 (RHS)
S: 3 (LHS) = 3 (RHS)
O: 12 (LHS) = 12 (RHS)
Balanced.
Final Answer
The coefficients are a = 2, b = 3, c = 1, d = 3 → Option (a).
Now Fe is balanced (4 on each side).
Now S is balanced (8 on each side).
From 2Fe₂O₃ → 2 × 3 = 6 oxygen atoms
Step 5: Verify.
Fe: 4 (LHS) = 4 (RHS)
S: 8 (LHS) = 8 (RHS)
O: 22 (LHS) = 22 (RHS)
Balanced.
Final Answer: (a) x = 4, y = 11, z = 2, w = 8
Q3: What is a balanced chemical equation?
Ans: The equation which contains an equal number of atoms of each element on both sides of the arrow is called a balanced chemical equation.
Q5: Lead nitrate solution is added to a test tube containing potassium iodide solution. Write the balanced chemical equation for the reaction involved.
Combination Reaction
Q1: Select from the following a process in which a combination reaction is involved:
Q4: Name the type of chemical reaction in which calcium oxide reacts with water. Justify your answer by giving a balanced chemical equation for the chemical reaction.

Q5: When magnesium ribbon is burnt in the air, an ash of white colour is produced. Write the chemical equation for the reaction giving the chemical name of the ash produced. State the type of chemical reaction justifying your answer.
Q6: Name the type of chemical reaction that takes place when quicklime is added to water.
Ans: The reaction between CaO and H2O to form Ca(OH)2 is an exothermic and combination reaction.
Decomposition Reaction
It is exothermic/combination reaction
Ans: (A) 
Sunlight is essential for the above reaction to take place. This is a decomposition reaction. Such reactions require energy either in the form of heat, light or electricity for breaking down the reactants. Silver chloride turns grey after its decomposition into silver and chlorine by sunlight. This reaction is used in black and white photography.
(B) 
Q4: What is observed when silver chloride is exposed to sunlight? Give the type of reaction involved.
Ans: When silver chloride is exposed to sunlight, it decomposes to form silver metal and chlorine gas. 2AgCl(s) → 2Ag(s) + Cl2(g) This is a photochemical decomposition reaction.
Q5: The emission of brown fumes in the given experimental set-up is due to:


Thus, the correct answer is (a) thermal decomposition of lead nitrate which produces brown fumes of nitrogen dioxide.
Ans: (a)
When lead nitrate (Pb(NO3)2) is heated, it decomposes and produces brown fumes of nitrogen dioxide (NO2). This happens because the lead nitrate breaks down into lead oxide (PbO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and oxygen (O2). The brown color of the fumes is characteristic of nitrogen dioxide, making option (a) the correct answer.

Q8: Study the figure given below and answer the following questions:


- Water is a poor conductor of electricity.
- Adding sulphuric acid improves conductivity, allowing the reaction to proceed.
Ans: (a) At anode: Oxygen gas is liberated. At cathode: Hydrogen gas is liberated.
(b) In the test tube covering the cathode, the amount of gas collected is double than that of the gas collected in the test tube covering the anode due to stochiometry.
2H2O → 2H2 + O2
(c)Without adding dilute sulphuric acid, water would not conduct electricity effectively, which would hinder the electrolysis process. As addition of a few drops of sulphuric acid make water a good conductor of electricity.
Also read: Audio Notes: Chemical Reactions and Equations |
Displacement and Double Displacement Reactions

Ans:


Ans: (d)
When hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is passed through a blue solution of copper sulfate (CuSO4), it forms a black precipitate of copper sulfide (CuS) while sulfuric acid (H2SO4) remains in the solution. This process involves the exchange of ions between the reactants, characteristic of a double displacement reaction. In this type of reaction, the ions from both compounds swap partners, which makes option (d) the correct answer.
Q7: What is observed after about 1 hour of adding the strips of copper and aluminium separately to the ferrous sulphate solution filled in two beakers? Name the reaction if any change in colour is noticed. Also, write a chemical equation for the reaction.
Ans:
Cu(s) + FeSO₄(aq) → No change will take place
Copper is less reactive than Fe, so Cu cannot displace iron from a ferrous sulphate solution. Hence, No reaction will take place.
2 Al(s) + 3 FeSO₄(aq) → Al₂(SO₄)₃ + 3 Fe(s) (Displacement reaction)
When Al is added to a FeSO₄(aq) solution, the green colour of FeSO₄(aq) disappears and the Fe is seen setting down as the reaction occurs. Al being higher in the reactivity series displaces the Fe in FeSO₄.
Redox Reactions
Q2: Define a redox reaction in terms of gain or loss of oxygen.

Ans:

(c) 'M' undergoes oxidation in this reaction because Mg gain oxygen to form MgO.
Q5: Mention with reason the colour changes observed when copper powder is strongly heated in the presence of oxygen.

Q6: 1 g of copper powder was taken in a China dish and heated. What change takes place in healing? When hydrogen gas is passed over this heated substance, a visible change is seen in it. Give the chemical equations of reactions, the name and the colour of the products formed in each case.

![]() | Test: Redox Reactions | Start Test |
Exothermic and Endothermic Reactions
Cheat Sheet: Chemical Reactions and Equations
A chemical reaction is a process in which one or more substances (reactants) are converted into new substances (products) with different properties.
Examples from daily life include:
- Milk turning sour
- Rusting of iron
- Burning of fuel
- Digestion of food
- Respiration
In all these cases, the original substances change into new substances, which indicates that a chemical reaction has occurred.
2. Indicators of a Chemical Reaction
A chemical reaction can often be identified by certain observable changes.

These observations help us determine whether a chemical reaction has taken place.
3. Chemical Equations
A chemical equation is a symbolic representation of a chemical reaction using chemical formulas.
Word Equation
A reaction can first be written in words.
Chemical Equation
Using chemical formulas, the same reaction becomes:
Mg + O₂ → MgO
In a chemical equation:
- Reactants are written on the left-hand side (LHS)
- Products are written on the right-hand side (RHS)
- An arrow (→) shows the direction of the reaction.
4. Balanced Chemical Equations
A chemical equation must follow the Law of Conservation of Mass, which states that mass cannot be created or destroyed in a reaction. Therefore, the number of atoms of each element must be the same on both sides of the equation.
Example
Unbalanced equation:
Fe + H₂O → Fe₃O₄ + H₂
Balanced equation:
3Fe + 4H₂O → Fe₃O₄ + 4H₂
Balancing ensures that the same number of atoms exist before and after the reaction.
5. Writing Physical States in Equations
Chemical equations often include the physical state of substances.

Example:
3Fe(s) + 4H₂O(g) → Fe₃O₄(s) + 4H₂(g)
Sometimes reaction conditions like heat, pressure, catalyst, or sunlight are written above or below the arrow.
6. Types of Chemical Reactions
Chemical reactions can be classified into several types.
6.1 Combination Reaction
A combination reaction occurs when two or more substances combine to form a single product.
Example: CaO + H₂O → Ca(OH)₂
In this reaction, calcium oxide and water combine to form calcium hydroxide (slaked lime).
Other examples:
- C + O₂ → CO₂
- 2H₂ + O₂ → 2H₂O
Exothermic Reactions
Many combination reactions release heat.
Example: CH₄ + 2O₂ → CO₂ + 2H₂O + heat
Respiration is also an exothermic reaction because it releases energy.
6.2 Decomposition Reaction
A decomposition reaction occurs when a single compound breaks down into two or more simpler substances.
Example: CaCO₃ → CaO + CO₂
This reaction occurs when calcium carbonate is heated.
Decomposition reactions require energy such as:
- Heat
- Light
- Electricity
Examples:

These reactions absorb energy and are often endothermic reactions.
6.3 Displacement Reaction
A displacement reaction occurs when a more reactive element replaces a less reactive element from its compound.
Example: Fe + CuSO₄ → FeSO₄ + Cu
Here, iron displaces copper from copper sulphate solution.
Other examples:
- Zn + CuSO₄ → ZnSO₄ + Cu
- Pb + CuCl₂ → PbCl₂ + Cu
These reactions occur because some elements are more reactive than others.
6.4 Double Displacement Reaction
A double displacement reaction occurs when two compounds exchange their ions to form new compounds.
Example:Na₂SO₄ + BaCl₂ → BaSO₄ + 2NaCl
In this reaction:
Barium sulphate forms as a white precipitate (insoluble solid).
Such reactions are called precipitation reactions when an insoluble substance forms.
6.5 Oxidation and Reduction (Redox Reactions)
These reactions involve the transfer of oxygen or hydrogen.

Example:
CuO + H₂ → Cu + H₂O
In this reaction:
- CuO loses oxygen → reduction
- H₂ gains oxygen → oxidation
Since both processes occur together, they are called redox reactions.
7. Effects of Oxidation in Everyday Life
Corrosion
Corrosion is the slow destruction of metals due to reactions with air, moisture, or chemicals.
Examples:
- Rusting of iron
- Black coating on silver
- Green coating on copper
Rusting causes major damage to structures such as bridges, vehicles, and iron railings.
Rancidity
Rancidity occurs when fats and oils react with oxygen, causing food to develop unpleasant smell and taste.
Examples:
- Stale chips
- Spoiled butter or oil
Prevention methods:
- Use airtight containers
- Add antioxidants
- Store food in refrigerators
- Flush chip packets with nitrogen gas to prevent oxidation.

