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I. Chapter Summary
This chapter introduces the concept of chemical reactions and how they are represented using chemical equations. It explains how to identify chemical changes, balance chemical equations, and classify different types of chemical reactions such as combination, decomposition, displacement, double displacement, and oxidation-reduction reactions. It also discusses real-life applications and observations like precipitation, change in color, evolution of gas, and change in temperature, which indicate chemical reactions.
II. Key Concepts Covered
| Concept | Description |
| Chemical Reaction | A process in which new substances with new properties are formed. |
| Chemical Equation | Representation of a chemical reaction using symbols and formulae. |
| Balanced Equation | A chemical equation with equal number of atoms of each element on both sides. |
| Types of Reactions | Combination, Decomposition, Displacement, Double Displacement, Redox. |
| Oxidation | Addition of oxygen or removal of hydrogen. |
| Reduction | Removal of oxygen or addition of hydrogen. |
| Precipitation Reaction | Reaction in which an insoluble solid (precipitate) is formed. |
| Corrosion | Slow oxidation of metals in the presence of air and moisture. |
| Rancidity | Oxidation of fats and oils resulting in bad smell and taste. |
III. Important Questions
(A) Multiple Choice Questions (1 Mark)
- Which of the following is a displacement reaction?
a) Zn + CuSO₄ → ZnSO₄ + Cu ✅ (PYQ 2020)
b) NaCl + AgNO₃ → AgCl + NaNO₃
c) CaCO₃ → CaO + CO₂
d) H₂ + Cl₂ → 2HCl - Which of the following observations help in identifying a chemical reaction?
a) Change in temperature
b) Change in color
c) Formation of gas
d) All of these ✅ - Which gas is released when zinc reacts with dilute HCl?
a) Oxygen
b) Hydrogen ✅
c) Nitrogen
d) Carbon dioxide - Which of the following is a redox reaction?
a) Zn + CuSO₄ → ZnSO₄ + Cu ✅
b) NaOH + HCl → NaCl + H₂O
c) AgNO₃ + NaCl → AgCl + NaNO₃
d) CaO + CO₂ → CaCO₃
(B) Short Answer Questions (2/3 Marks)
- Write the balanced chemical equation for the reaction between hydrogen and oxygen to form water. (PYQ 2019)
- Why is respiration considered an exothermic reaction?
- What is rancidity? How can it be prevented?
- Differentiate between oxidation and reduction reactions.
(C) Long Answer Questions (5 Marks)
- Define and classify chemical reactions with one example each. (PYQ 2021)
- Write the steps involved in balancing a chemical equation. Balance the following: Fe + H₂O → Fe₃O₄ + H₂
- Explain the following with examples:
a) Combination reaction
b) Decomposition reaction
c) Displacement reaction
d) Double displacement reaction
e) Redox reaction - What is corrosion? Explain the causes and prevention methods.
(D) HOTS (Higher Order Thinking Skills)
- A white substance is formed when solutions of silver nitrate and sodium chloride are mixed. Identify the type of reaction and explain the chemistry behind it.
- If a shiny iron nail turns brownish after a few days in moist air, what kind of reaction has occurred? How can it be prevented?
IV. Key Formulas/Concepts
| Concept | Example |
| Combination Reaction | CaO + H₂O → Ca(OH)₂ + heat |
| Decomposition Reaction | 2Pb(NO₃)₂ → 2PbO + 4NO₂ + O₂ |
| Displacement Reaction | Zn + CuSO₄ → ZnSO₄ + Cu |
| Double Displacement | Na₂SO₄ + BaCl₂ → BaSO₄↓ + 2NaCl |
| Redox Reaction | Zn + CuSO₄ → ZnSO₄ + Cu (Zn is oxidized, Cu²⁺ is reduced) |
| Corrosion Reaction | Fe + H₂O + O₂ → Fe₂O₃·xH₂O (rust) |
V. Deleted Portions (CBSE 2025–2026)
No portions have been deleted from this chapter as per the rationalized NCERT textbooks (2025–26).
VI. Chapter-Wise Marks Bifurcation (Estimated – CBSE 2025–2026)
| Unit/Chapter | Estimated Marks | Type of Questions Typically Asked |
| Chapter 1: Chemical Reactions and Equations | 6–8 Marks | 1 Long Answer, 1–2 Short Answers, 2–3 MCQs |
VII. Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
| Year | Marks | Question |
| 2021 | 5 | Explain types of chemical reactions with one example each. |
| 2020 | 1 | Identify the reaction: Zn + CuSO₄ → ZnSO₄ + Cu |
| 2019 | 3 | Balance the equation: H₂ + O₂ → H₂O |
| 2018 | 1 | Name the gas evolved when zinc reacts with dilute HCl. (Hydrogen) |
VIII. Real-World Application Examples
| Concept | Real-World Connection |
| Rusting | Seen in iron gates, vehicles, tools—affects durability and safety. |
| Combustion | Burning of fuels in vehicles and cooking stoves. |
| Photosynthesis | A natural example of combination reaction in plants. |
| Antacids | Neutralization reaction between acid (HCl in stomach) and base (Mg(OH)₂). |
| Fire Extinguishers | Acid-base reaction between NaHCO₃ and acid to release CO₂. |
IX. Student Tips & Strategies for Success
Time Management
- Allocate 30–40 minutes twice a week for Chemistry.
- Use charts to revise reaction types and examples.
Exam Preparation
- Practice writing balanced equations.
- Make a table of reaction types with one example each.
- Attempt sample papers and PYQs regularly.
Stress Management
- Use flashcards and mind maps for quick revision.
- Avoid memorization—focus on understanding reaction logic.
- Take breaks and revise in 25-minute focused sessions (Pomodoro Technique).
X. Career Guidance & Exploration (Class-Specific)
For Classes 9–10
Stream Overview
- Science: Core focus on Chemistry, Physics, Biology
- Commerce: Application of chemistry in product manufacturing, quality control
- Arts: Environmental Studies, Science Communication
Career Paths
- Chemical Engineer, Pharmacist, Forensic Scientist, Environmental Chemist, Research Scientist
Foundation Exams
- NTSE, Junior Science Olympiad, National Children’s Science Congress, KVPY (Class 11+)
XI. Important Notes
- Always refer to https://ncert.nic.in and https://cbseacademic.nic.in for syllabus and guidelines.
- Maintain a reaction summary notebook.
- Focus on reasoning-based and application-based questions.
- Conceptual clarity is key—don’t memorize reactions blindly.
