Question

When it is exposed to sunlight, silver chloride breaks down into silver and chlorine. What is the correct equation for this decomposition reaction?

Answer 1

The correct equation for the decomposition reaction of Silver chloride :

2AgCl(s)⇒2Ag(s)+Cl₂(g)

Further explanation

Given

Silver chloride breaks down into Silver and Chlorine.

Required

The correct equation

Solution

Decomposition reaction : a single reactants breaks down into 2 or more products. The reaction is the reverse of synthesis reaction

General formula :

AB ⇒ A + B

So for decomposition of Silver chloride :

2AgCl(s)⇒2Ag(s)+Cl₂(g)