Thermal Decomposition of Magnesium Carbonate

MgCO3 → MgO + CO2

Aperçu

Magnesium carbonate decomposes when heated above 350 C to form magnesium oxide and carbon dioxide. This reaction occurs at a lower temperature than calcium carbonate decomposition because magnesium carbonate is less thermally stable. It is used in the production of magnesia for refractory applications.

Participants

Rôle Substance Coefficient État
Produit Magnesium Oxide MgO 1 (s)
Produit Carbon Dioxide CO₂ 1 (g)

Exemple du quotidien

Gymnasts and rock climbers use magnesium carbonate (chalk) on their hands, which is produced and processed using knowledge of this decomposition.

Importance industrielle

Magnesium oxide produced by this decomposition is used as a refractory material in furnace linings, as a medicine (antacid), and in magnesium metal production.

Propriétés

Type
Decomposition
Réversible
Non
Énergie
Endothermique
ΔH
100,6 kJ/mol

Réactions associées

Decomposition of Ammonium Nitrate Decomposition of Calcium Hypochlorite Decomposition of Carbonic Acid Decomposition of Iron(II,III) Oxide (Direct Reduction) Decomposition of Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas) Decomposition of Barium Peroxide Decomposition of Sodium Bicarbonate Decomposition of Water (Electrolysis) Thermal Decomposition of Copper(II) Carbonate Cracking of Octane (Thermal Cracking)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Thermal Decomposition of Magnesium Carbonate?
The balanced equation is: MgCO₃ → MgO + CO₂.
What type of reaction is Thermal Decomposition of Magnesium Carbonate?
Thermal Decomposition of Magnesium Carbonate is a decomposition reaction.
Is Thermal Decomposition of Magnesium Carbonate exothermic or endothermic?
Thermal Decomposition of Magnesium Carbonate is endothermic (absorbs energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is 100.6 kJ/mol.