In a double substitution reaction, what is exchanged between compounds?

In a double substitution reaction, often referred to as a double replacement reaction, ions are exchanged between the reacting compounds. This type of reaction typically involves two ionic compounds in solution, where the cations and anions switch partners to form two new compounds.

For example, when silver nitrate (AgNO3) and sodium chloride (NaCl) react, the silver ions (Ag+) and sodium ions (Na+) exchange places with the nitrate ions (NO3-) and chloride ions (Cl-). This results in the formation of silver chloride (AgCl) and sodium nitrate (NaNO3). The key characteristic of a double substitution reaction is that it primarily involves the exchange of ions, making the formation of new ionic compounds possible.

Considering the context, while electrons, atoms, and elements are all integral parts of chemical reactions, the precise action in a double substitution reaction pertains specifically to the exchange of ions between the reactants. This highlights the nature of ionic interactions and the formation of new compounds through the rearrangement of ions.