Module 4.2 - Common Reaction Types

Home

Table of
Contents

Chemical Equations

Common
Reaction Types

Net Ionic Equations

Decomposition Reactions

Decomposition reactions are those in which one compound breaks down (or decomposes) to form two or more products.

There are many compounds that will decompose if exposed to some stress. The stress that sets off these reactions may be in the form of heat, pressure, electricity, or shock.

Large amounts of aluminum are produced from the decompostion of aluminum oxide. This is done by applying heat and electricity to solutions of aluminum oxide:

Common Reaction Types