Single Displacement Reaction Calculator

A single displacement reaction occurs when a free element swaps places with one element in a compound — the Single Displacement Reaction Calculator predicts whether this swap actually happens and writes the balanced equation for you. Enter the Free Element (A) and Compound (BC), then select the Reaction Type (cation or anion replacement) to see whether a reaction occurs, the balanced equation, and the resulting product element and product compound. Check Show Detailed Steps to see the full step-by-step solution.

Enter the free element symbol (uppercase first letter)

Enter the compound formula

Display step-by-step solution process

Results

Reaction Occurs

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Balanced Equation

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Product Element

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Product Compound

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Reaction Classification

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Results Table

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a single displacement reaction?

A single displacement reaction occurs when a more reactive element displaces a less reactive element from its compound. The general form is A + BC → AC + B, where A replaces B in the compound.

How do I know if a single displacement reaction will occur?

Use the reactivity series (activity series) to determine if a reaction will occur. A more reactive element will displace a less reactive element from its compound. If the free element is less reactive, no reaction occurs.

What are some common examples of single displacement reactions?

Common examples include Zn + CuSO₄ → ZnSO₄ + Cu (zinc displaces copper) and Mg + 2HCl → MgCl₂ + H₂ (magnesium displaces hydrogen from acid).

What is the difference between cation and anion replacement?

Cation replacement involves a metal displacing another metal from a compound (A + BC → AC + B). Anion replacement involves a nonmetal displacing another nonmetal from a compound.

How do I balance single displacement reaction equations?

First identify the products based on reactivity, then balance by adjusting coefficients to ensure equal numbers of each type of atom on both sides of the equation.

What happens when a less reactive element is used?

If a less reactive element is used as the displacing agent, no reaction will occur. The original compound remains unchanged, often written as 'No Reaction' or NR.

Can single displacement reactions involve gases?

Yes, single displacement reactions can produce gases. For example, when metals react with acids, hydrogen gas is often produced as one of the products.