Amazing Chemical Reactions post includes creating vibrant rainbows in a beaker to powering explosions on the big screen, chemistry is full of exciting reactions that can captivate anyone. This list of amazing chemical reactions highlights some of the best examples from everyday life and beyond.
The Cannizzaro Reaction.
One of the most fascinating reactions is the Cannizzaro reaction. Also known as Cannizzaro’s rearrangement, this reaction includes aldehydes being oxidized and reduced simultaneously. In this process, an aldehyde with no alpha hydrogen atoms reacts with a strong base like sodium hydroxide to form an alkoxide ion and an alcohol that contains a hydrogen atom in the place of the original double bond. This reaction is important for producing alcohols from organic compounds.
Decomposition of Potassium Chlorate.
Potassium chloride is a salt that exists mainly in aqueous solutions. As an oxidizing agent, potassium chlorate can sometimes decompose into elemental chlorine. This reaction occurs when heated to high temperatures and results in the formation of gaseous chlorine and potassium chloride. The reaction releases tremendous amounts of energy in the form of heat and light, making it very suitable for many chemical applications including fireworks.
Combustion of Magnesium.
Combustion of magnesium is another amazing chemical reaction. This reaction occurs when magnesium metal is exposed to oxygen and causes the release of large amounts of energy in the form of light and heat. Magnesium has a high heat capacity, meaning it takes a lot of energy to increase its temperature. When it combusts, these stored energies are released creating a brilliant show of sparks that can reach temperatures upwards of 4000oC.
Neutralization Reactions.
Neutralization reactions are a type of chemical reaction that involve the combination of an acid and a base. This produces water and salt, resulting in neutralized pH. For example, when hydrochloric acid (an acid) is mixed with sodium hydroxide (a base), they undergo a neutralization reaction to create sodium chloride, or salt, and water. The importance of this reaction extends beyond the classroom – it’s what gives us drinking water and makes chemical waste safe for disposal.
Fermentation.
Fermentation is a type of metabolic reaction that enables yeast to break down sugars and starches and turn them into energy. During fermentation, the sugar is first broken down into alcohol and carbon dioxide, releasing chemical energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate). This process plays a critical role in the production of beer, wine, bread, cheese, kombucha and yogurt!
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