Chemical reactions: decomposition
I can describe what happens during decomposition reactions, and write chemical equations to show these.
Chemical reactions: decomposition
I can describe what happens during decomposition reactions, and write chemical equations to show these.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Decomposition reactions involve a single compound breaking down into two or more products.
- Decomposition reactions usually require heat, light, or electricity, to occur.
- When metal carbonates decompose upon heating, they typically form metal oxides and carbon dioxide gas.
Keywords
Decompose - When a substance decomposes it undergoes a decomposition reaction.
Decomposition - A type of reaction in which a reactant compound breaks down into two or more products.
Common misconception
Pupils often struggle to understand that not all reactions consist of two substances mixed together to cause a reaction.
Show the symbol equation and how the reactants are rearranged to form the products.
Equipment
Boiling tubes, metal carbonates, clamp and stand, heat resistant mat, bung with delivery tube, spatula, limewater.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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