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Which statement correctly describes a Chemical reaction?

A chemical reaction involves the transformation of one or more substances into new substances with different properties through the breaking and forming of chemical bonds.

Answer: It changes substances into new ones.

To identify the correct statement, let’s understand what a chemical reaction is and evaluate each option step by step.

What is a Chemical Reaction?

A chemical reaction involves the rearrangement of atoms where the bonds between atoms break and reform to create new substances. The substances you start with are called reactants, and the substances formed are called products.

Evaluating the Options:

  • A. Reactants come out of a reaction.
    This is incorrect. Reactants are the starting materials going into the reaction. They do not “come out” of a reaction; instead, they transform into products.Example: In the reaction:

    H2+O2→H2OH_2 + O_2 \rightarrow H_2OHydrogen gas (H₂) and oxygen gas (O₂) are the reactants, and water (H₂O) is the product.


  • B. Products go into a reaction.
    This is also incorrect. Products are the result of a chemical reaction, not what enters it.Example: In photosynthesis:

    CO2+H2O→C6H12O6+O2CO_2 + H_2O \rightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6 + O_2Glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and oxygen (O₂) are products that come out of the reaction, not what goes in.


  • C. Energy is always released.
    This is partially true but not always correct. Some reactions release energy (exothermic), while others absorb energy (endothermic).Examples:
    • Exothermic Reaction (Energy Released):
      Combustion of methane:CH4+2O2→CO2+2H2O+energyCH_4 + 2O_2 \rightarrow CO_2 + 2H_2O + \text{energy}Energy (heat/light) is released.
    • Endothermic Reaction (Energy Absorbed):
      Photosynthesis:CO2+H2O+energy (sunlight)→C6H12O6+O2CO_2 + H_2O + \text{energy (sunlight)} \rightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6 + O_2Energy is absorbed.

  • D. Bonds between atoms breaking and reforming.
    This is the correct answer. A chemical reaction involves breaking the bonds in reactants and forming new bonds in products. This bond rearrangement leads to new substances.Example: In the formation of water:
    • Bonds in H₂ and O₂ are broken.
    • New bonds are formed to create H₂O.

    This process transforms reactants into products, making it the hallmark of a chemical reaction.


Final Answer:

D. Bonds between atoms breaking and reforming.

In conclusion 

chemical reactions are essential processes that drive the transformation of substances, shaping both the natural world and human innovation. From sustaining life to powering industries, they play a pivotal role in various fields like chemistry, biology, and environmental science. By understanding and harnessing chemical reactions, scientists can unlock new possibilities, optimize processes, and develop solutions that advance technology and improve our quality of life.