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How to Know If It Is an Addition or Condensation Reaction

Molecules of different substances can undergo many different types of reactions. Since each unique molecule has a specific geometry, or distribution of its atoms in space, and specific types of bonding between those atoms, it can only undergo reactions with other appropriate molecules that fit its physical and chemical characteristics. Condensation and addition reactions are common reaction types in organic chemistry, but not all molecules can undergo both of these two reactions. Looking at the characteristics of the reacting molecules, as well as the product species, can help you identify which reaction is likely to have taken place.

Instructions

- 1
  Write down the reaction. Use dash or bond-line formulas so that you can easily visualize the bonding in the reactant molecules and the product molecule.
- 2
  Look for double or triple bonds in the reactant molecules. Addition reactions can only take place between molecules that contain multiple bonds.
- 3
  Look for the conversion of the double or triple bonds in the reactant molecules to single or double bonds in the resulting product molecule. This conversion suggests than an addition reaction has taken place.
- 4
  Determine if all of the atoms originally present in the reacting molecules are still all present in the single product molecule. This result suggests that an addition reaction has taken place.
- 5
  Identify if the reaction produces a main product molecule and, additionally, another small molecule such as water, ethanol or ammonia. This result suggests that a condensation reaction has taken place.

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