Atomic Theory Chem (DH) Practice Test

A double displacement reaction occurs when two compounds react and the ions in each compound switch places to form two new compounds. This type of reaction typically involves an exchange of ions when an aqueous solution of each compound is combined. The general form of a double displacement reaction can be represented as:

AB + CD → AD + CB

In this equation, A and C are cations, while B and D are anions. The products (AD and CB) are typically different compounds than the reactants (AB and CD).

This reaction can result in the formation of a precipitate, a gas, or a more stable compound. The key characteristic that distinguishes it from other types of reactions is the exchange of ions rather than just the replacement of one element or compound by another, which happens in single displacement reactions. The false options here reference processes that do not accurately reflect the nature of double displacement reactions, such as solely resulting in gas release, or ionization without the exchange of ions between compounds.