Define the term decomposition reaction. Give one example each for thermal decomposition and electrolytic decomposition reaction.

Explanation

A chemical reaction in which a single compound or reactant breaks down into two or more simpler products is called chemical decomposition reaction.
Example : Decomposition reaction carried out by heating is called thermal decomposition. Decomposition of calcium carbonate :
`CaCO_(3)(s)overset("heat")toCaO(s)+CO_(2)(g)`
Example : When a decomposition reaction takes place with the help of electric current, the process is called electrolysis.
Electrolytic decomposition of water :
`2H_(2)O(l)overset("electric current")to2H_(2)(g)+O_(2)(g)`