Question

if mercury (ii) oxide is heated and decomposes, what would the product of the reaction be?
4hgo→4+2o₂

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze the decomposition reaction

Decomposition reactions break a compound into simpler substances. Mercury (II) oxide (\(HgO\)) decomposes.

Step2: Apply conservation of elements

In a chemical reaction, elements are conserved. The reactant is \(HgO\) (contains \(Hg\) and \(O\)). One product is \(O_2\), so the other product must be \(Hg\) (mercury).

Answer:

\(Hg\)