Grade 9 → C hemical reactions and equations → Types of Chemical Reactions ↓
Decomposition reactions
Chemistry involves understanding how substances interact with each other and undergo changes to form new substances. One of these processes is the decomposition reaction, which is a fascinating type of chemical reaction. Let's learn in detail what decomposition reactions are and how they occur.
What is a decomposition reaction?
A decomposition reaction is a type of chemical reaction in which a single compound breaks down into two or more simpler substances. These reactions are the opposite of combination reactions and require energy in the form of heat, light, or electricity.
General formula of decomposition reactions
The general equation for the decomposition reaction can be written as:
AB → A + B
In this equation, AB
is a compound that disintegrates into A
and B
, which are simpler substances.
Types of decomposition reactions
Decomposition reactions can occur in different ways depending on the type of energy involved in breaking down the compounds. The main types are:
1. Thermal decomposition
Thermal decomposition occurs with the application of heat. When a compound is heated, it breaks down into simpler substances. These reactions are common in metal carbonates and nitrates.
Example:
CaCO₃ (s) → CaO (s) + CO₂ (g)
Here, calcium carbonate (CaCO₃
) decomposes into calcium oxide (CaO
) and carbon dioxide gas (CO₂
) when heated.
2. Electrolytic decomposition
In this type of reaction, electric current is used to decompose the compound. It is widely used in the electrolytic extraction of metals.
Example:
2H₂O (l) → 2H₂ (g) + O₂ (g)
In this example, when electric current is passed through water (H₂O
), it disintegrates into hydrogen gas (H₂
) and oxygen gas (O₂
).
3. Photodecomposition (or photolysis)
Photodecomposition reactions occur when light energy breaks chemical bonds in a compound. These are also called photolysis reactions.
Example:
2AgCl (s) → 2Ag (s) + Cl₂ (g)
In the above example, silver chloride (AgCl
) decomposes into silver (Ag
) and chlorine gas (Cl₂
) in the presence of light.
Characteristics of decomposition reactions
Endothermic process
Decomposition reactions usually require energy in the form of heat, light or electricity. This energy is necessary to break the chemical bonds in the compound.
Manufacture of multiple products
Decomposition reactions yield two or more products. The nature and state (solid, liquid, gas) of these products depend on the original compound and the conditions under which the reaction occurs.
Real life applications of decomposition reactions
Decomposition reactions are prevalent in a variety of industrial processes and natural phenomena. Here are some examples:
In the industry
Decomposition reactions are important in manufacturing industries such as the production of cement, where limestone (CaCO₃
) is decomposed into lime (CaO
) and carbon dioxide (CO₂
).
In fireworks
Decomposition reactions are used to create bright colors in fireworks displays. The compounds in a firework shell decompose when burned, releasing colored gases and energy.
In daily life
Baking involves decomposition reactions. Baking soda (NaHCO₃
) decomposes when heated in the oven, producing carbon dioxide (CO₂
) that helps the dough rise.
2NaHCO₃ (s) → Na₂CO₃ (s) + H₂O (l) + CO₂ (g)
Factors affecting decomposition reactions
Several factors determine the rate and occurrence of decomposition reactions:
Temperature
As the temperature increases, the energy available to break the bonds increases, speeding up the decomposition reaction.
Catalyst
Catalysts can lower the activation energy needed for the reaction, thereby speeding up the decomposition. Although they are not consumed in the process, they provide an alternative route for the reaction to take place.
Concentration
In cases where solutions are involved, higher concentrations of the reactant usually increase the rate of decomposition.
Conclusion
Decomposition reactions are an essential type of chemical reaction in which complex compounds are broken down into simpler compounds. They require energy and are found in a variety of applications from industry to daily life. Understanding decomposition reactions provides insight into chemical processes and helps in harnessing them for practical uses.