How can compounds be broken apart?
Chemical processes known as decomposition reactions can disintegrate compounds.
For instance, a chemical process known as electrolysis can convert water into the diatomic elements hydrogen gas and oxygen gas.
By electrolysis, sodium chloride can also be reduced to elemental sodium and chlorine gas.
When heated, some compounds decompose thermally. For instance, when copper(II) carbonate is heated, it breaks down into copper(II) oxide and carbon dioxide gas.
By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Compounds can be broken apart through chemical reactions. The main methods include:
-
Decomposition Reactions: A single compound breaks down into two or more simpler substances (elements or compounds). This can be achieved through heating (thermal decomposition), application of electricity (electrolysis), or exposure to light (photodecomposition).
-
Electrolysis: An electrical current is passed through an aqueous solution of the compound, causing it to decompose into its elements. For example, water (H₂O) can be split into hydrogen (H₂) and oxygen (O₂) gases.
-
Acid-Base Reactions: An acid reacts with a base, leading to the decomposition of compounds and formation of water and a salt. This is often used to break down complex organic molecules.
-
Oxidation-Reduction (Redox) Reactions: Compounds can be broken down by either gaining (reduction) or losing (oxidation) electrons. This method is commonly used in metallurgy to extract metals from their ores.
-
Photolysis: Compounds, particularly organic compounds, can be broken down by the energy from light. This method is significant in environmental chemistry, such as the breakdown of pollutants.
-
Thermal Decomposition: Heating a compound can cause it to break down into simpler substances. This method is widely used in industrial processes, such as the production of lime (CaO) from limestone (CaCO₃).
The choice of method depends on the compound's chemical properties and the desired outcome of the decomposition process.
By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Compounds can be broken apart through chemical reactions. These reactions can involve various processes such as decomposition, hydrolysis, oxidation, or reduction. Chemical reactions break the bonds holding the atoms together in the compound, resulting in the formation of new substances.
By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.
When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.
When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.
When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.

- 98% accuracy study help
- Covers math, physics, chemistry, biology, and more
- Step-by-step, in-depth guides
- Readily available 24/7