Question

Define the term decomposition reaction?

Answer 1

Decomposition reaction:

• In a decomposition reaction, a single reactant decomposes to form a number of products.
• A decomposition reaction can be defined as a chemical reaction in which one reactant breaks down into two or more products.
• Any reactant substance decomposed by the action of heat or by the application of electricity.
• For example:

CaCO₃(s) $\to$ CaO(s) + CO₂(g)

Calcium carbonate calcium oxide carbon dioxide

The general representation of decomposition reaction is:

AB → A + B

Where,

AB = Reactant
A and B = Product molecules