Decomposition of Carbonic Acid

H2CO3 → H2O + CO2

Descripción general

Carbonic acid readily decomposes into water and carbon dioxide gas. This unstable acid exists in equilibrium with dissolved CO2 in water. The enzyme carbonic anhydrase catalyzes this reaction in blood, facilitating CO2 transport and release in the lungs.

Participantes

Rol Sustancia Coeficiente Estado
Reactivo Carbonic Acid H₂CO₃ 1 (aq)
Producto Water H₂O 1 (l)
Producto Carbon Dioxide CO₂ 1 (g)

Ejemplo cotidiano

The fizzing when you open a carbonated drink is CO2 escaping as dissolved carbonic acid decomposes.

Importancia industrial

Este equilibrio es central en la química oceánica, la regulación del pH sanguíneo y la tecnología de carbonatación en la industria de bebidas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Decomposition of Carbonic Acid?
The balanced equation is: H₂CO₃ → H₂O + CO₂.
What type of reaction is Decomposition of Carbonic Acid?
Decomposition of Carbonic Acid is a decomposition reaction. It is reversible under certain conditions.
Is Decomposition of Carbonic Acid exothermic or endothermic?
Decomposition of Carbonic Acid is endothermic (absorbs energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is 20.0 kJ/mol.
What conditions are needed for Decomposition of Carbonic Acid?
This reaction requires a catalyst (Carbonic anhydrase enzyme).