On heating `KCIO_(3)` we get :

Options

A. `KClO_(2) + O_(2)`
B. `KCI + O_(2)`
C. `KCl +O_(3)`
D. `KCl + O_(2) + O_(3)`

Answer

To solve the question regarding the thermal decomposition of potassium chlorate (KClO₃), we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Write the chemical equation for the decomposition of KClO₃.
When potassium chlorate is heated, it decomposes into potassium chloride and oxygen gas. The balanced chemical equation for this reaction is:

\[ 2 \text{KClO}_3 (s) \rightarrow 2 \text{KCl} (s) + 3 \text{O}_2 (g) \]

### Step 2: Identify the role of manganese dioxide (MnO₂).
Manganese dioxide acts as a catalyst in this reaction. A catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process. In this case, MnO₂ lowers the activation energy required for the decomposition of KClO₃.

### Step 3: Explain the effect of the catalyst on the reaction.
The presence of manganese dioxide decreases the activation energy needed for the reaction to occur. This means that the reaction can proceed more quickly and at a lower temperature than it would without the catalyst.

### Step 4: State the products formed.
Upon heating KClO₃ in the presence of manganese dioxide, the products formed are potassium chloride (KCl) and oxygen gas (O₂).

### Final Answer:
On heating KClO₃, we get potassium chloride (KCl) and oxygen gas (O₂).