Chapter 8, Problem 37A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:The decomposition reaction needs to be explained and classified.

Concept Introduction:A chemical reaction can be described as the process of conversion of reactant molecules to product molecules by breaking and making of chemical bonds.

A balance chemical reaction contains same number of atoms at both sides of the chemical reaction.

Answer to Problem 37A

Decomposition reaction can be defined as chemical reaction in which one of the substance decompose to two or more components of it.

It can be further classified as:

• Thermal decomposition reaction
• Electrolytic decomposition reaction
• Photo-decomposition reaction

Explanation of Solution

Given information: Decomposition reactions can be classified in different ways.

Decomposition reaction can be defined as chemical reaction in which one of the substance decompose to two or more components of it.

For example decomposition of HgO leads to formation of Hg metal and O₂ gas.

  ${\text{2 HgO}}_{\text{(s) }}\stackrel{}{\to }{\text{ 2 Hg}}_{\text{(l}}{}_{\text{)}}{\text{ + O}}_{\text{2}}{}_{\text{(g)}}$

It can be further classified as:

• Thermal decomposition reaction − Such decomposition reactions occur in the presence of high temperature.
• Electrolytic decomposition reaction − These decomposition reactions takes place due to the flow of electricity.
• Photo-decomposition reaction − These decomposition reactions occur in the presence of light.

Conclusion

Decomposition reaction can be defined as chemical reaction in which one of the substance decompose to two or more components of it.

It can be further classified as:

• Thermal decomposition reaction
• Electrolytic decomposition reaction
• Photo-decomposition reaction