Decomposition Reaction

Decomposition reactions generally result from heating or passing an electical current through a solution. Carbonates, chlorates and some oxides decompose when heated. Electrolysis usually produces the elements.

Heating

CaCO₃(s) --heat--> CaO(s) + CO₂(g)

2KClO₃(s) --heat--> 2KCl(s) + 3O₂(g)

2HgO(s) --heat--> 2Hg(l) + O₂(g)

2H₂O₂(aq) --heat--> 2H₂O(l) + O₂(g)

Electrolysis

2H₂O(l) --electrolysis--> 2H₂(g) + O₂(g)

MgCl₂(s) --electrolysis--> Mg(s) + Cl₂(g)