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Decomposition of limestone to quick lime and carbon dioxide is an example of which of the following types of reaction?
Reduction reaction
Thermal decomposition
Photochemical decomposition
Oxidation reaction
Thermal decomposition
The decomposition of limestone (calcium carbonate, CaCO3тАЛ) into quicklime (calcium oxide, CaO) and carbon dioxide (CO2тАЛ) is achieved by heating. Since this reaction requires the continuous supply of heat energy to break the chemical bonds, it is classified as a thermal decomposition reaction.
The decomposition of limestone (calcium carbonate, CaCO3тАЛ) into quicklime (calcium oxide, CaO) and carbon dioxide (CO2тАЛ) is achieved by heating. Since this reaction requires the continuous supply of heat energy to break the chemical bonds, it is classified as a thermal decomposition reaction.
Think of it like melting a solid ice cube by placing it on a hot stove; just as the ice needs energy to turn into water, limestone needs a 'hot stove' (furnace) to turn into lime and gas.
CaCO3тАЛ(s)+╬ФтЖТCaO(s)+CO2тАЛ(g) тАФ The chemical equation for the thermal decomposition of calcium carbonate.
Thermal decomposition is a type of chemical reaction where a single reactant breaks down into two or more simpler products upon the absorption of heat. In this specific case, calcium carbonate absorbs energy to overcome its lattice energy, resulting in the evolution of CO2тАЛ gas and the formation of solid CaO. The reaction is endothermic, meaning it only proceeds as long as heat is applied.
Limestone is chemically known as Calcium Carbonate.
Quicklime is chemically known as Calcium Oxide.
This reaction is a hallmark example of an endothermic process.
Thermal decomposition requires a persistent source of heat.
Used extensively in the cement and glass manufacturing industries.
High energy consumption required to reach the necessary decomposition temperature (approx. 900 ┬░C).
Production of quicklime for building materials.
Manufacturing of cement in rotary kilns.
Thermal decomposition occurs when heat energy breaks chemical bonds.
Reduction reaction involves gain of electrons or loss of oxygen.
Photochemical decomposition uses light (e.g., Ag┬аCl decomposition in photography).
Oxidation involves gain of oxygen or loss of electrons.
B is correct тАФ The process is a thermal decomposition reaction because heat is required to break down the limestone.
Remember: Reactions requiring heat are 'Thermal', those requiring light are 'Photochemical', and those requiring electricity are 'Electrolytic'.