Which type of energy is commonly required to initiate a decomposition reaction?

• A. Sound energy
• B. Heat energy
• C. Nuclear energy
• D. Mechanical energy

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that a decomposition reaction involves breaking down a compound into simpler substances.
2. Recognize that breaking chemical bonds requires energy input to overcome the bond energies holding the compound together.
3. Identify the common types of energy that can initiate chemical reactions: heat (thermal energy), light (radiant energy), sound, mechanical, and nuclear energy.
4. Recall that heat energy is most commonly used to provide the necessary activation energy to start decomposition reactions by increasing molecular vibrations and breaking bonds.
5. Conclude that among the options given, heat energy is the typical form of energy required to initiate a decomposition reaction.