Thermal Decomposition of Potassium Chlorate

2KClO3 → 2KCl + 3O2

Aperçu

Potassium chlorate decomposes when heated (with MnO2 catalyst at ~200 C, or without catalyst at ~400 C) to form potassium chloride and oxygen gas. This reaction was historically used as a laboratory source of oxygen gas before compressed gas cylinders became widely available.

Participants

Rôle Substance Coefficient État
Produit Potassium Chloride KCl 2 (s)
Produit Oxygen O 3 (g)

Exemple du quotidien

Safety matches contain potassium chlorate as the oxidizer, which decomposes and releases oxygen when struck to help ignite the match.

Importance industrielle

Used in pyrotechnics, matches, and as a laboratory oxygen source. Potassium chlorate was historically used as a primary explosive, though safer alternatives have largely replaced it.

Propriétés

Type
Decomposition
Réversible
Non
Énergie
Endothermique
ΔH
89,4 kJ/mol
Catalyseur
Manganese dioxide (MnO₂)

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 Potassium Chlorate?
The balanced equation is: 2KClO₃ → 2KCl + 3O₂.
What type of reaction is Thermal Decomposition of Potassium Chlorate?
Thermal Decomposition of Potassium Chlorate is a decomposition reaction.
Is Thermal Decomposition of Potassium Chlorate exothermic or endothermic?
Thermal Decomposition of Potassium Chlorate is endothermic (absorbs energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is 89.4 kJ/mol.
What conditions are needed for Thermal Decomposition of Potassium Chlorate?
This reaction requires a catalyst (Manganese dioxide (MnO₂)).