decomposition reaction

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Word: Decomposition Reaction

Part of Speech: Noun (Chemistry)

Definition: A decomposition reaction is a type of chemical reaction where one substance breaks down into two or more different substances. This process involves the separation of the original substance into simpler products, which may not resemble the original substance.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "decomposition reaction" when discussing chemistry, especially in the context of chemical processes and reactions.
• It is commonly used in scientific writing, discussions about chemical reactions, and education.

Example:

• When water (H₂O) is subjected to electricity, it undergoes a decomposition reaction, breaking down into hydrogen (H₂) and oxygen (O₂) gases.

Advanced Usage:

• In advanced chemistry, decomposition reactions can be classified into different types, such as thermal decomposition (caused by heat) and electrolysis (caused by an electric current).
• Understanding decomposition reactions is essential for studying various biological processes, such as the breakdown of organic matter.

Word Variants:

• Decompose (verb): To break down into simpler parts or substances.
  • Example: Organic matter decomposes over time, returning nutrients to the soil.
• Decomposed (adjective): Referring to something that has undergone decomposition.
  • Example: The decomposed plant material enriched the soil.

Different Meanings:

In everyday language, "decompose" can also refer to the process of decay or rot, especially in relation to organic materials.

Synonyms:

• Breakdown reaction
• Separation reaction
• Dissociation (though this term can have a slightly different meaning in chemistry)

Related Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While "decomposition reaction" does not have specific idioms or phrasal verbs associated with it, you might find the following useful in broader contexts: - Break down: This phrasal verb can mean to analyze something into simpler parts or to stop functioning. - Example: The car broke down on the way to the trip.

Summary:

A decomposition reaction is an important concept in chemistry that involves breaking down a substance into simpler parts.

Academic

Noun

1. (chemistry) separation of a substance into two or more substances that may differ from each other and from the original substance

Synonyms

• decomposition
• chemical decomposition reaction