Let's identify the type of reaction for each given equation by understanding the general characteristics of chemical and nuclear reactions.
1. For the reaction:
[tex]\[ Cl_2 + H_2 \rightarrow 2 HCl \][/tex]
- In this reaction, we are observing the formation of hydrochloric acid (HCl) from chlorine gas (Cl_2) and hydrogen gas (H_2).
- This process involves the breaking and forming of covalent bonds between the atoms of the reactants to form the products.
Key Characteristics:
- Chemical reactions involve the rearrangement of electrons in the outer shells.
- The nuclei of the atoms involved do not change.
Thus, this reaction is a chemical reaction.
2. For the reaction:
[tex]\[ \frac{2}{1} H + \frac{3}{2} H \rightarrow \frac{4}{2} He + \frac{1}{0} n \][/tex]
- Here, two isotopes of hydrogen, deuterium ([tex]\( ^2/_1 H \)[/tex]) and tritium ([tex]\( ^3/_1 H \)[/tex]), undergo fusion to form helium ([tex]\( ^4/_2 He \)[/tex]) and a neutron ([tex]\( ^1/_0 n \)[/tex]).
- This reaction involves changes in the nuclei of the atoms, including the fusion of two lighter nuclei to form a heavier nucleus.
Key Characteristics:
- Nuclear reactions involve changes in the composition of the nucleus and often release a significant amount of energy.
- These reactions can involve processes like fusion, fission, or radioactive decay.
Thus, this reaction is a __nuclear__ reaction.
Summary:
1. The reaction [tex]\( Cl_2 + H_2 \rightarrow 2 HCl \)[/tex] represents a chemical reaction.
2. The reaction [tex]\( \frac{2}{1} H + \frac{3}{2} H \rightarrow \frac{4}{2} He + \frac{1}{0} n \)[/tex] represents a nuclear reaction.
