What happens during a decomposition reaction?

In a decomposition reaction, the primary characteristic is that reactants are broken down into simpler substances or basic components. This process typically involves a compound being split into two or more simpler products, often as a result of the addition of energy in the form of heat, light, or electricity.

For example, when hydrogen peroxide decomposes, it breaks down into water and oxygen gas: (2 H_2O_2 \rightarrow 2 H_2O + O_2). Here, the initial substance (hydrogen peroxide) is transformed into simpler substances, which illustrates the fundamental nature of decomposition reactions.

This distinguishes it from other types of reactions, such as synthesis reactions where smaller reactants combine to form a more complex product, or exchange reactions where components are swapped between molecules to create new compounds. In decomposition, the focus is solely on the breaking apart of a single compound into its constituents.