There are 5 general types of chemical reactions: 1. Synthesis reactions combine two or more substances to form one new substance. 2. Decomposition reactions break down a single substance into two or more new substances. 3. Combustion reactions involve burning and produce carbon dioxide, water, and other products. 4. Single displacement reactions involve one element replacing another in a compound. 5. Double displacement reactions involve the switching of cations and anions between two compounds.