The equation stipulates that 2 molecules of zinc phosphate (Zn3(PO4)2) decompose into 6 molecules of zinc oxide (ZnO), 4 molecules of P2O5, and one molecule of O2. Both sides of the equation are balanced, with each side containing 24 zinc atoms, 16 phosphorus atoms, and 32 oxygen atoms.
- Reaction conditions
Thermal decomposition reactions often occur at high temperatures. However, the equation does not specify a particular temperature.
- Reaction process
The thermal decomposition is a process of splitting a chemical compound into different compounds by heating it at high temperatures. In this case, zinc phosphate (Zn3(PO4)2) is heated to produce zinc oxide (ZnO), P2O5, and oxygen (O2).
- Occurring phenomenon
As the temperature increases, the zinc phosphate begins to decompose and converts into other compounds. This phenomenon can be observed through changes in color, size, or shape of the original substance. In reality, identifying exactly what changes occur may require chemical or physical analyses.