Which chemical symbols will complete the equation for the decomposition reaction: 2H_2O_2 → ___ + ___?

• A. H_2O + 2O_2
• B. 2H_2O + O_2
• C. 2H_2 + O_2
• D. 2H_2O + 2O

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the reactant and the type of reaction. Here, the reactant is hydrogen peroxide (H_2O_2), and the reaction is a decomposition reaction, meaning one compound breaks down into simpler substances.
2. Write the general form of the decomposition reaction: 2H_2O_2 → products. Our goal is to find the correct products that balance the equation both in terms of atoms and charge.
3. Determine the possible products by considering the common decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, which typically produces water (H_2O) and oxygen gas (O_2).
4. Balance the equation by ensuring the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides. For hydrogen peroxide, balancing leads to 2H_2O and O_2 as products.
5. Write the balanced chemical equation: 2H_2O_2 → 2H_2O + O_2, confirming that the number of hydrogen and oxygen atoms are equal on both sides.