In a double displacement reaction, what typically occurs?

In a double displacement reaction, two compounds typically exchange ions or elements to form two new compounds. This type of reaction is characterized by the general format where the cations and anions of the reactants switch places. The exchange leads to the formation of products that may be precipitates, gases, or weak electrolytes, depending on the specific compounds involved.

For example, when sodium sulfate reacts with barium chloride, the sodium ion (from sodium sulfate) pairs with the chloride ion (from barium chloride) to form sodium chloride, and the barium ion pairs with the sulfate ion to form barium sulfate. This showcases the essence of double displacement reactions, as the initial reactants combine and rearrange to yield new products through the exchange of components.

The other options describe different types of reactions that do not fit the criteria of double displacement. One element replacing another refers to a single displacement reaction, while a single compound decomposing into products indicates a decomposition reaction. Energy absorption to form products can occur in various types of reactions but does not specifically define the behavior of double displacement reactions.