Decomposition Reactions

A decomposition reaction is the one in which a compound decomposes into two or more than two substances (elements or compounds).

For example, lime stone when heated gives lime and carbon dioxide.

CaCO₃ (s) + heat → CaO (s) + CO₂ (g)

Thermal Decomposition

In the reactions in which decomposition occurs by application of heat, such reactions fall in the category of thermal decomposition. For example,

2Pb(NO₃)₂ (s) + heat → 2PbO (s) + 4NO₂ (g) + O₂ (g)

Electrolytic Decomposition

A reaction in which a compound decomposes due to electrical energy into two or more than two substances (elements or compounds) is called electrolytic decomposition reaction.