A solution of sodium chloride is mixed with a solution of lead(II) nitrate. A precipitate of lead(II) chloride results, leaving a solution of sodium nitrate. Into which class(es) does this reaction fit?

Double displacement reaction

Explanation:

The chemical reaction is as follows :

NaCl + Pb(NO3)2 → PbCl + NaNO3.

Balanced equation:

Pb(NO3)2 + 2NaCl → PbCl2 + 2NaNO3

The reaction is a double displacement reaction . A double displacement reaction is a chemical reaction between compound where the cations and the anions of the 2 reactants exchange places to form a new product.

Double displacement reaction, the 2 reactants exchange ions to form new compounds. Double displacement reaction usually produce a solid precipitate. A good illustration of a double displacement reaction is

AB + CD → AD + CB.

From the reaction above the Sodium ion replace lead to from sodium nitrate while lead replace sodium to form the precipitate lead chloride.  The anions(negatively charged ions) also exchange position.