In chemical reactions, the substances formed as a result of the process are designated as the resulting compounds. These are distinct from the starting materials, which are known as reactants. Their formation signifies that a chemical change has occurred, involving the rearrangement of atoms and molecules. For instance, combining hydrogen and oxygen gases under appropriate conditions yields water; water, in this scenario, represents the resultant compound.
The identification and quantification of these resulting compounds are crucial for understanding reaction mechanisms and predicting reaction outcomes. Analyzing these substances allows chemists to determine the efficiency of a reaction, optimize reaction conditions, and develop new synthetic pathways. Historically, the ability to isolate and characterize these compounds has driven advancements in various fields, including medicine, materials science, and agriculture.