CHEMICAL DECOMPOSITION Meaning and
Definition
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Chemical decomposition refers to a type of chemical reaction where a compound breaks down into simpler substances. It is a process in which a complex molecule is broken down into two or more smaller molecules or atoms by various mechanisms. This reaction is typically triggered by an external factor, such as heat, light, electricity, or the presence of a catalyst.
During chemical decomposition, the original compound is transformed into different compounds or elements, resulting in a rearrangement of its constituent atoms. The decomposition can occur in various ways, such as through thermal decomposition, electrolytic decomposition, photolysis, or catalytic decomposition.
Thermal decomposition involves the application of heat to induce the chemical breakdown of a substance. For example, when calcium carbonate (CaCO3) is heated, it decomposes into calcium oxide (CaO) and carbon dioxide (CO2). Electrolytic decomposition occurs when an electric current is used to break down a compound into its component ions. Photolysis relies on the absorption of light to provide the energy needed for decomposition, as seen in the breakdown of water (H2O) into hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (O2) in the presence of light. Catalytic decomposition involves the use of a catalyst to facilitate the decomposition reaction.
Chemical decomposition plays a crucial role in various natural and industrial processes. It is employed in fields such as chemistry, biology, and environmental science to study reactions, understand the breakdown of organic and inorganic compounds, and design processes that involve the controlled decomposition of substances.
Etymology of CHEMICAL DECOMPOSITION
The word "chemical" is derived from the Latin word "chemicus", which in turn comes from the Greek word "khēmikós", meaning "of alchemy". Alchemy was an ancient practice related to transforming substances and achieving various chemical processes.
The word "decomposition" is derived from the Latin word "decompositio", which combines the prefix "de" (meaning "reverse" or "undo") and the verb "componere" (meaning "to put together"). Hence, "decomposition" refers to the process of breaking down or separating the components of a substance.
Thus, the etymology of "chemical decomposition" essentially refers to the process of reversing or undoing the arrangement or combination of chemical components in a substance.
