Decomposition reactions result in __________ compounds.
bigger
smaller
not sure
smaller
Usually smaller.
Decomposition reactions result in smaller compounds. To explain this, let's first define what a decomposition reaction is. In a decomposition reaction, a single compound breaks down into two or more simpler substances. This occurs when the chemical bonds within the original compound are broken.
During a decomposition reaction, the original compound is essentially being "split apart" into its component parts. As a result, the resulting compounds formed are smaller than the original compound.
For example, consider the decomposition of water (H2O) into hydrogen gas (H2) and oxygen gas (O2):
2H2O → 2H2 + O2
In this reaction, the water molecule breaks down into two smaller molecules, hydrogen gas and oxygen gas.
Therefore, decomposition reactions result in smaller compounds rather than bigger compounds.