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Decomposition in Green Chemistry
A topic from the subject of Decomposition in Chemistry.
Decomposition in Green Chemistry
Key Points
- Decomposition is the breakdown of a compound into simpler substances.
- Decomposition can be spontaneous or induced by heat, light, or chemical reactions.
- Decomposition is an important process in green chemistry because it can be used to recycle or reuse materials.
Main Concepts
Decomposition is a chemical change in which a compound breaks down into two or more simpler substances. Decomposition reactions are represented by the general equation:
AB → A + B
Decomposition reactions can be spontaneous or induced by heat, light, or chemical reactions. Spontaneous decomposition reactions occur when the products of the reaction have a lower energy than the reactants. Induced decomposition reactions require energy to overcome the activation energy barrier.
Decomposition is an important process in green chemistry because it can be used to recycle or reuse materials. For example, the thermal decomposition of plastics can be used to produce fuel or other useful materials.
Decomposition in Green Chemistry Experiment
Materials:
- Hydrogen peroxide (3%)
- Yeast
- Thermometer
- Test tube
- Stopper
Procedure:
- Measure 10 mL of hydrogen peroxide into the test tube.
- Add a pinch of yeast to the test tube.
- Insert the thermometer into the test tube and stopper it.
- Swirl the test tube gently to dissolve the yeast.
- Record the initial temperature of the solution.
- Allow the test tube to stand for 10 minutes.
- Record the final temperature of the solution.
Observations:
The solution will become warmer as the reaction proceeds. The thermometer will show a temperature increase of approximately 5 degrees Celsius.
Explanation:
The yeast acts as a catalyst for the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide. The reaction produces oxygen gas, water, and heat. The increase in temperature is a result of the exothermic nature of the reaction.
Significance:
This experiment demonstrates a green chemistry approach to decomposition. The yeast is a renewable resource and the reaction does not produce any harmful waste products. This type of chemistry is important for developing sustainable processes that minimize environmental impact.