Question

Define decomposition reactions.

Answer 1

Decomposition reactions are initiated by the addition of energy.

A decomposition reaction is a chemical reaction in which some chemical bonds in a compound are broken and simpler substances are formed. The breaking of chemical bonds requires the addition of energy, usually in the form of heat.

When a compound is heated, its atoms move about more vigorously. This movement can break chemical bonds. For example, if calcium carbonate is strongly heated, it decomposes into calcium oxide and carbon dioxide.

${CaCO}_3\left(s\right)\to CaO\left(s\right)+{CO}_2\left(g\right)$