Question

Is the following reaction synthesis or decomposition?

`N_2 (g)` + `O_2 (g)` `->` `2NO (g)`

Answer 1

Synthesis.

Explanation:

In simple terms, a synthesis reaction is the name given to a reaction that consumes two or more reactants and produces a single product.

In this case, nitrogen gas, `"N"_2`, and oxygen gas, `"O"_2`, react to form nitric oxide, `"NO"`. Notice that two reactants are used up and a single product is formed `->` a synthesis reaction took place.