Answer :

A synthesis reaction, also known as a direct combination reaction, is characterized by the combination of two or more simple substances to form a more complex product. The general form of a synthesis reaction is:

\[ A + B \rightarrow AB \]

Here are the hallmarks of a synthesis reaction:

1. **Reactants**: Two or more reactants combine. These reactants can be elements or simpler compounds.
2. **Product**: The reaction produces a single, more complex product.
3. **Energy Changes**: Synthesis reactions often release energy in the form of heat or light, making them exothermic.
4. **Formation of Bonds**: New chemical bonds are formed between the reactants to create the product.
5. **Stoichiometry**: The reactants combine in specific stoichiometric ratios to form the product.
6. **Simplification**: The reactants are generally simpler substances, whereas the product is a more complex compound.

### Examples of Synthesis Reactions:

1. **Formation of Water:**
\[ 2H_2 (g) + O_2 (g) \rightarrow 2H_2O (l) \]

2. **Formation of Ammonia:**
\[ N_2 (g) + 3H_2 (g) \rightarrow 2NH_3 (g) \]

3. **Formation of Sodium Chloride:**
\[ 2Na (s) + Cl_2 (g) \rightarrow 2NaCl (s) \]

These examples illustrate how simple reactants combine to form a more complex product, a key characteristic of synthesis reactions.