Question

The following balanced equation represents what type of reaction?

2 H2O → 2 H2 + O2
Select one:

a.
double displacement


b.
single displacement


c.
synthesis


d.
decomposition

Answer 1

D.) decomposition

Step-by-step explanation:

A.) is incorrect. In double-displacement reactions, the cation of one compound is swapped with the cation of another.

These reactions have the general structure: AB + CD -----> AD + BC.

B.) is incorrect. In single-displacement reactions, the an element within a compound is swapped with another element.

These reactions have the general structure: AB + C -----> AC + B.

C.) is incorrect. In synthesis reactions, two or more elements/compounds are combined to create a new and larger compound/molecule.

These reactions have the general structure: A + B -----> AB.

D.) is correct. In decomposition reactions, a compound/molecule is broken down into smaller elements/compounds. In the given reaction, water (H₂O) separates into its respective elements, hydrogen (H₂) and oxygen (O₂).

These reactions have the general structure: AB -----> A + B