Thermal Decomposition Flashcards

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What is meant by thermal decomposition in chemistry?

Thermal decomposition is when a compound is broken down into simpler substances by heating it.

What must you do to a compound to make it undergo thermal decomposition?

You must heat it strongly.

Write a word equation for the thermal decomposition of calcium carbonate.

Calcium carbonate → calcium oxide + carbon dioxide.

Write the balanced symbol equation for the thermal decomposition of calcium carbonate, CaCO3.

CaCO3 → CaO + CO2.

What is the general word equation for the thermal decomposition of a metal carbonate?

Metal carbonate → metal oxide + carbon dioxide.

What colour change do you see when green copper carbonate is heated and thermally decomposes?

It changes from green to black as copper oxide forms.

Which gas is given off when metal carbonates such as calcium carbonate are thermally decomposed?

Carbon dioxide gas is given off.

How can you test that the gas from a decomposing metal carbonate is carbon dioxide?

Bubble the gas through limewater; it turns milky or cloudy if carbon dioxide is present.

Does thermal decomposition take in heat or give out heat?

It takes in heat from the surroundings; it is an endothermic reaction.

Name an industrial use of the thermal decomposition of calcium carbonate (limestone).

It is used in lime kilns to make calcium oxide (quicklime) for cement and other building materials.

Revision Notes
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