Question

What happens during a decomposition reaction?

A) Positive and negative ions in two different compounds replace each other.
B) An uncombined element replaces an element that is part of a compound.
C) One complex substance breaks down into two or more simpler substances.
D) Two or more simpler substances combine to make a more complex substance.

Answer 1

A decomposition reaction occurs when one complex substance breaks down into two or more simpler substances, such as elements or compounds.

Step-by-step explanation:

During a decomposition reaction, option C) One complex substance breaks down into two or more simpler substances. This type of reaction involves a single compound splitting apart to form multiple new substances, which could be elements, other compounds, or a combination of both. For example, when heated, calcium carbonate (CaCO3) decomposes into calcium oxide (CaO) and carbon dioxide (CO2).

During a decomposition reaction, a single compound breaks down into two or more simpler substances. This can involve the decomposition of elements, compounds, or a mixture of both. For example, when hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) breaks down into water (H2O) and oxygen (O2), it is a decomposition reaction.