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describe and write equations for the thermal decomposition ofGroup 2 nitrates and carbonates, including the trend in thermalstabilities

Question

describe and write equations for the thermal decomposition ofGroup 2 nitrates and carbonates, including the trend in thermalstabilities

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Solution

Group 2 nitrates and carbonates undergo thermal decomposition reactions. This means they break down when heated, forming new substances.

  1. Decomposition of Group 2 Nitrates: Group 2 nitrates will decompose to form the metal oxide, nitrogen dioxide and oxygen. The general equation for this decomposition is:

2M(NO3)2(s) → 2MO(s) + 4NO2(g) + O2(g)

Where M represents the Group 2 metal (for example, M could be Mg, Ca, Sr, etc.)

  1. Decomposition of Group 2 Carbonates: Group 2 carbonates decompose to form the metal oxide and carbon dioxide. The general equation for this decomposition is:

MCO3(s) → MO(s) + CO2(g)

Again, M represents the Group 2 metal.

The thermal stability of Group 2 nitrates and carbonates increases down the group. This is because as the size of the cation increases (i.e., as we move down the group), the charge density decreases. This makes it harder for the lattice to be broken down by heat, hence more thermal energy is required to decompose the compound. Therefore, the thermal stability increases down the group.

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