What type of chemical reaction is characterized by two or more reactants forming one product?

A synthesis reaction is defined by the combination of two or more reactants to form a single product. This type of reaction can be represented by the general equation A + B → AB, where A and B are the reactants that chemically combine to create the compound AB, which is the product.

This is in contrast to other types of reactions:

• A decomposition reaction involves a single compound breaking down into two or more simpler substances, which is the opposite of what occurs in a synthesis reaction.

• A single replacement reaction features one element replacing another in a compound, resulting in a new element and a new compound.

• A double replacement reaction occurs when parts of two compounds exchange places to form two new compounds.

The defining characteristic of a synthesis reaction is the merging of multiple reactants into one cohesive product, making it a fundamental type of chemical reaction.