Chemical reaction

History: Antoine Lavoisier developed the theory of combustion as a chemical reaction with oxygen. Chemical reactions such as combustion in fire, fermentation, and the reduction of ores to metals were known since antiquity. Initial theories of transformation of materials were developed by Greek philosophers. Alchemists in the Middle Ages studied chemical transformations and attempted to convert lead into gold. The artificial production of chemical substances was a central goal for medieval alchemists. Characteristics: Chemical reactions involve the rearrangement of atoms and an energy change. Reactants or reagents are the substances initially involved in a chemical reaction. Chemical reactions yield one or more products with different properties. Reactions often consist of a sequence of individual substeps. Reaction rates are influenced by temperature and chemical concentration. Types: Reactions can be classified as redox or nonredox. Redox reactions involve oxidation and reduction. Most simple redox reactions fall into categories like combination, decomposition, or single displacement. Nonredox reactions do not involve oxidation and reduction. Different chemical reactions are used in chemical synthesis and biochemistry. Applications: Chemical reactions are used in chemical synthesis to obtain desired products. In biochemistry, consecutive series of chemical reactions form metabolic pathways. Enzymes catalyze biochemical reactions, increasing reaction rates. Metabolic syntheses and decompositions occur in cells due to enzyme activity. Chemical reactions are used in various fields for practical purposes. Extensions: The concept of chemical reactions has been extended to reactions between entities smaller than atoms. This includes nuclear reactions, radioactive decays, and reactions between elementary particles. Quantum field theory describes reactions at a fundamental level. Understanding reactions at a microscopic level is crucial in various scientific disciplines. The study of chemical reactions continues to evolve with advancements in technology and theoretical frameworks.