double decomposition reaction
- noun
- /ˈdʌbəl ˌdiːˌkɒmpəˈziːʃən rɪˈækʃən/
- Specialized
- In a typical double decomposition reaction, silver nitrate reacts with sodium chloride to produce silver chloride and sodium nitrate.
Examples
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The chemistry teacher demonstrated a double decomposition reaction by mixing two clear solutions that suddenly formed a solid.
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In a double decomposition reaction, compounds exchange ions.
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A double decomposition reaction occurs when two solutions are mixed and a precipitate forms.
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A typical double decomposition reaction involves two ionic compounds.
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In a typical double decomposition reaction, silver nitrate reacts with sodium chloride to produce silver chloride and sodium nitrate.
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The chemistry teacher demonstrated a double decomposition reaction by mixing two clear solutions that suddenly formed a solid.
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A double decomposition reaction occurs when two solutions are mixed and a precipitate forms.
Synonyms
1
9.9
Two compounds swap parts to make two new compounds
1
6.5
A reaction between two chemical compounds where parts swap to form two new compounds
1
4.4
Two compounds swap ions to make two new compounds
Surface Forms
Morphology
double + decomposition + reaction
The words 'double' (twofold) and 'reaction' (chemical process) give a general cue that this is a two-part chemical process, but 'decomposition' normally suggests breaking into simpler substances, which does not accurately describe the specific exchange-of-parts (double displacement) mechanism. A B1 learner who knows the constituents would get a partial but misleading picture and would not reliably infer the precise meaning without prior exposure or domain knowledge.
Etymology
Double decomposition reaction gives a simple picture: imagine two dancing pairs who 'swap partners', so each pair becomes a new pair. That image fits the chemistry idea: double means two, decomposition suggests breaking into parts, and in the reaction the two compounds 'exchange parts' to make two new compounds.