3. which of the following is not likely to indicate that a double-displacement reaction has occurred neutralization of acids and bases, formation of a precipitate, formation of a gas, change of a metal ion to a metal element

Try C

Out of the options provided, "change of a metal ion to a metal element" is not likely to indicate that a double-displacement reaction has occurred. Double-displacement reactions typically involve the exchange of ions between two compounds, resulting in the formation of new compounds. The other options - neutralization of acids and bases, formation of a precipitate, and formation of a gas - are common indications of a double-displacement reaction.

To determine which of the given options is not likely to indicate a double-displacement reaction, we need to understand the characteristics and observations associated with double-displacement reactions.

A double-displacement reaction, also known as a double replacement reaction or metathesis reaction, is a type of chemical reaction where the cations and anions of two different compounds exchange places to form two new compounds. In this reaction, the positive and negative ions of the reactants switch partners.

Let's now analyze each option to identify whether it is likely to indicate a double-displacement reaction:

1. Neutralization of acids and bases: This is a commonly observed reaction that often indicates a double-displacement reaction. When an acid reacts with a base, the hydrogen ions (H+) from the acid combine with the hydroxide ions (OH-) from the base to form water (H2O), and the remaining ions combine to form a salt. This process involves the exchange of ions between the acid and base, making it a double-displacement reaction. Therefore, neutralization of acids and bases is likely to indicate a double-displacement reaction.

2. Formation of a precipitate: A precipitate is an insoluble solid that forms when two aqueous solutions are combined. In a double-displacement reaction, the exchange of ions between the reactants may lead to the formation of a new compound, which could be insoluble in water and subsequently precipitate out of the solution. Therefore, the formation of a precipitate is often observed in double-displacement reactions.

3. Formation of a gas: Production of gas is also a common observation in double-displacement reactions. When certain combinations of ions react, they can form a gaseous compound that escapes from the solution. Examples include the formation of carbon dioxide gas (CO2) when an acid reacts with a carbonate or bicarbonate compound, or the production of hydrogen gas (H2) when an acid reacts with a metal.

4. Change of a metal ion to a metal element: This option is not likely to indicate a double-displacement reaction. In double-displacement reactions, there is an exchange of ions between different compounds, but the metal ions do not undergo a change from their ionic form to the elemental metal form. Instead, the metal ions combine with the new anion to form a different compound. For example, in the reaction between silver nitrate (AgNO3) and sodium chloride (NaCl), silver cations (Ag+) exchange partners with chloride anions (Cl-) to form silver chloride (AgCl) while maintaining their ionic nature.

Therefore, the correct option that is not likely to indicate a double-displacement reaction is "change of a metal ion to a metal element."