Final answer:
The type of chemical reaction being described is a neutralization reaction, where an acid and a base react to form water and a salt, fitting the category of a double replacement reaction.
Step-by-step explanation:
Chemical reactions can be divided into several general types, including synthesis, decomposition, single replacement, double replacement, and combustion reactions.
In a synthesis reaction, two or more substances combine to form a new compound; a decomposition reaction involves a compound breaking down into two or more simpler substances; and a combustion reaction typically involves the burning of a substance in the presence of oxygen, resulting in the production of heat and light.
A neutralization reaction is a type of chemical reaction where an acid and a base react to form water and a salt. This can also be seen as a double replacement reaction because of the exchange of ions between the acid and the base.
The general formula for a neutralization reaction is: Acid + Base → Salt + Water. An example of a neutralization reaction is HCl (hydrochloric acid) reacting with NaOH (sodium hydroxide) to produce NaCl (sodium chloride) and H₂O (water).
Based on the description provided, the neutralization reaction can be identified as the type of chemical reaction that is being described. The mention of the other reaction types—synthesis, combustion, and decomposition—helps provide context for distinguishing between different types of chemical reactions.