Answer :

Let's analyze the reaction given:

[tex]\[ C_{12}H_{22}O_{11} \rightarrow 12C + 11H_2O \][/tex]

We need to categorize this reaction based on the provided options: synthesis, decomposition, oxidation, and combustion.

1. Synthesis Reaction:
- This is a type of reaction where two or more simple substances combine to form a more complex substance. In other words, the general form of a synthesis reaction can be represented as:
[tex]\[ A + B \rightarrow AB \][/tex]
- Looking at our reaction, we can see it is not a synthesis reaction because it does not involve combining substances to form a new compound.

2. Decomposition Reaction:
- This type of reaction involves a single compound breaking down into two or more simpler substances. The general form of a decomposition reaction can be represented as:
[tex]\[ AB \rightarrow A + B \][/tex]
- Examining the given reaction, we observe that a single compound, sucrose ([tex]\( C_{12}H_{22}O_{11} \)[/tex]), is breaking down into carbon ([tex]\( C \)[/tex]) and water ([tex]\( H_2O \)[/tex]). Therefore, this reaction matches the pattern of a decomposition reaction.

3. Oxidation Reaction:
- Oxidation reactions involve the transfer of electrons, resulting in an increase in the oxidation state of one of the elements involved. While this might include reactions with oxygen, it is a broader term and normally happens in the context of redox reactions.
- In this case, while the breaking down of sucrose might involve electron transfers, the given process primarily fits the definition of decomposition rather than focusing on oxidation.

4. Combustion Reaction:
- Combustion involves reacting a compound, usually a hydrocarbon, with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide, water, and heat. The general form of a combustion reaction can be represented as:
[tex]\[ Hydrocarbon + O_2 \rightarrow CO_2 + H_2O \][/tex]
- Since our reaction does not involve oxygen as a reactant nor does it produce carbon dioxide, it does not fit the definition of a combustion reaction.

Given this analysis, the type of reaction for the given equation [tex]\(C_{12}H_{22}O_{11} \rightarrow 12C + 11H_2O\)[/tex] is a decomposition reaction.

Thus, the correct answer is:
- decomposition

Therefore, the type of reaction is:
```
decomposition
```