Final answer:
Carbonic acid (H2CO3) decomposes into carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O). This reaction is reversible and significant in both natural processes and in carbonated beverages.
Step-by-step explanation:
When carbonic acid (H2CO3) decomposes, it results in the formation of carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O). This decomposition is a common reaction that occurs when carbonic acid is formed from dissolved carbon dioxide in water. This compound is a diprotic acid, meaning it has two protons that can dissociate in solution. The following reaction illustrates the decomposition of carbonic acid: H2CO3(aq) → CO2(g) + H2O(l). This is a reversible process, and in the presence of water, carbon dioxide can equally recombine to form carbonic acid again. The composition and decomposition of carbonic acid are significant in various natural processes as well as in the production of carbonated beverages.