Question

Which type of reaction occurs in the following?

2HgO(s) -- 2Hg(l) + O2(g)
1. a decomposition reaction in which a metal is reduced
2. an acid-base neutralization reaction to produce oxygen gas a displacement
3. reaction involving two metals a combustion
4. reaction involving burning a metal in oxygen

Answer 1

1. a decomposition reaction in which a metal ion is reduced

Answer 2

1. A decomposition reaction in which a metal ion is reduced

Step-by-step explanation:

In a decomposition reaction, a single compound is converted into two or more simpler substances.

In this reaction, the oxidation number of Hg decreases from +2 in HgO to 0 in Hg (reduction), so the mercury ion is reduced.

2 is wrong. There are no acids or bases on the reactant side of the equation.

3 is wrong. There are no metals on the reactant side of the equation.

4 is wrong. There is no oxygen on the reactant side of the equation.