When an electrical current is used to decompose a compound, the chemical reaction is called electrolysis. Electrolysis involves the splitting of a compound into its constituent elements using electricity. This process is commonly used in various industrial applications, such as the production of metals like aluminum and sodium.
When heat is used to decompose a compound, the chemical reaction is known as thermal decomposition. Thermal decomposition occurs when a compound breaks down into simpler substances upon heating. An example of this is the decomposition of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) into calcium oxide (CaO) and carbon dioxide (CO2) when heated.
In summary:
a) When an electrical current is used to decompose a compound, the reaction is called electrolysis.
b) When heat is used to decompose a compound, the reaction is referred to as thermal decomposition.
