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Not really... although the terms are generally used synonomously, these days. An orchestra is defined as an ensemble of different families of instruments. So, that could include concert bands, big bands and the jazz orchestra (big band, 2 horns and strings), among others. A symphony is a specific musical form, usually played by a (fairly) specific ensemble. So, the term "symphony orchestra" is literally an ensemble capable of playing that kind of piece... thus the modern symphony orchestra. Generally, the term "symphony orchestra" is more specific, when talking about the classical ensemble.
Well you've answered the question yourself. Beethoven added vocal chorus for the first time into a symphony. This was an unprecedented and very odd choice at the time. Since then, it has had a moderate effect on future symphonies but nothing too drastic.
Chamber music is written for a small group of performers, usually between 2-5 players. Both symphonies and concerto are written for orchestras, with a much larger number of players.
The Surprise Symphony is a symphony written by Franz Joeseph Hayden. He has also made many more for example, the goodbye symphony
Eroica, Symphony #3. At the time of its premiere it was the longest symphony ever written.