Chemical Reactions and Equations
Class 10 · Science
4 ideas in Class 10 Science, explained in plain words, with games and quizzes to practise.
Chemical Change and Equation Basics
Part of: Chemical Change and Equation Basics
Materials can form new substances in a chemical change. A colour shift, gas, temperature change or new solid may be evidence. A word equation names the starting materials and the substances formed.
Why it matters. It helps learners distinguish a chemical change from a simple change in shape or size, and read the direction of a reaction.
Try it in two minutes
- Ask the child to describe a familiar change in food or metal.
- Ask what observation suggests a new substance formed.
- Use cards to place reactants before an arrow and products after it.
Try at home. Look for a safe everyday change and name one observation that suggests a reaction.
Balancing Chemical Equations
Part of: Balancing Chemical Equations
A chemical equation is balanced when every element has the same number of atoms on both sides. Coefficients change how many particles take part; they do not change the identity of a substance.
Why it matters. Balancing reflects conservation of matter. Changing a formula instead would describe a different substance.
Try it in two minutes
- Write a simple formula with counters for each type of atom.
- Count each type on both sides.
- Try changing a coefficient, then recount without altering the formula.
Try at home. Use coloured counters to model why both sides need equal atom counts.
Reaction Types and Energy Changes
Part of: Reaction Types and Energy Changes
Reactions can be grouped by how their substances change. Two reactants can form one product, one substance can split, or elements or ions can exchange partners. Some reactions release heat; others absorb energy.
Why it matters. Classifying the pattern helps predict what changes in a reaction and whether energy moves into or out of the surroundings.
Try it in two minutes
- Describe a reaction using words before naming its type.
- Ask whether the number of products increased or decreased.
- Discuss whether heat was released or absorbed in the example.
Try at home. Use simple cards for reactants and products to act out one reaction pattern.
Oxidation, Corrosion and Rancidity
Part of: Oxidation, Corrosion and Rancidity
Oxidation can involve gaining oxygen, while reduction can involve losing oxygen. In one reaction the changes are linked. Oxidation of metals can cause corrosion; oxidation of fats and oils can make food rancid.
Why it matters. These ideas explain changes seen in metal objects and stored foods, and how limiting contact with air can slow some changes.
Try it in two minutes
- Ask the child to compare a new metal object with one that has changed colour.
- Discuss what exposure to moisture or air may do.
- Name one way to slow oxidation in oily food.
Try at home. Check a sealed food package and discuss how limiting air may help preserve quality.
What your child will practise
- Balancing Chemical Equations: Desert Quick Fire (Quick Fire)
- Balancing Chemical Equations: Mission Control Quest (Collect the Answer)
- Chemical Change and Equation Basics: Space Quick Fire (Quick Fire)
- Oxidation, Corrosion and Rancidity: Desert Puzzle (Clue Puzzle)
- Reaction Types and Energy Changes: Lab Explorer Sort (Sort It Out)
- Quiz: Balancing Chemical Equations (8 questions)
- Quiz: Chemical Change and Equation Basics (8 questions)
- Quiz: Oxidation, Corrosion and Rancidity (8 questions)
- Quiz: Reaction Types and Energy Changes (8 questions)