A chemical reaction that has the general formula of [tex]\( n A \rightarrow (A)_n \)[/tex] involves multiple units of a substance A reacting to form a larger molecule consisting of n units of A.
Let's analyze the options provided:
1. Synthesis Reaction:
- A synthesis reaction involves two or more simple substances combining to form a more complex substance. The general form is [tex]\( A + B \rightarrow AB \)[/tex].
- Given the formula [tex]\( n A \rightarrow (A)_n \)[/tex], this doesn't seem to fit as we are not combining different substances but rather forming a larger structure from identical units.
2. Polymerization Reaction:
- A polymerization reaction involves small molecules called monomers joining together to form a large molecule known as a polymer. The general form is [tex]\( n A \rightarrow (A)_n \)[/tex], where n monomers of A join to form the polymer (A)_n.
- This matches perfectly with the given formula since multiple monomers of A are combining to form a polymer.
3. Decomposition Reaction:
- A decomposition reaction involves a single compound breaking down into two or more simpler substances. The general form is [tex]\( AB \rightarrow A + B \)[/tex].
- Since the given formula involves combining molecules rather than breaking them down, this doesn't match.
4. Oxidation Reaction:
- An oxidation reaction involves the loss of electrons or an increase in the oxidation state of a molecule, atom, or ion. It typically involves substances like oxygen, and is not described purely by the combining of identical units.
- The given reaction formula does not indicate any change in oxidation state or loss of electrons.
5. Replacement Reaction:
- A replacement (or displacement) reaction involves one element replacing another in a compound. The general form is [tex]\( A + BC \rightarrow AC + B \)[/tex].
- This does not correspond to the provided formula, as there is no replacement occurring but rather a combination of identical units.
Given this detailed analysis, the chemical reaction described by the formula [tex]\( n A \rightarrow (A)_n \)[/tex] is best classified as a polymerization reaction.
So, the correct classification is:
Polymerization.
