Thermal Decomposition of Sulfuric Acid

H2SO4 → H2O + SO3

Aperçu

Concentrated sulfuric acid decomposes at high temperatures (above 340 C) into water vapor and sulfur trioxide gas. This is the reverse of the hydration reaction that produces sulfuric acid. The equilibrium shifts toward decomposition at high temperatures.

Participants

Rôle Substance Coefficient État
Réactif Sulfuric Acid H₂SO₄ 1 (l)
Produit Water H₂O 1 (g)
Produit Sulfur Trioxide SO₃ 1 (g)

Exemple du quotidien

This decomposition is relevant to understanding why concentrated sulfuric acid fumes in hot weather and must be stored properly.

Importance industrielle

This equilibrium is important in sulfuric acid concentration processes and in the lead-chamber and contact processes for sulfuric acid manufacturing.

Propriétés

Type
Decomposition
Réversible
Oui
Énergie
Endothermique
ΔH
177,0 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 Sulfuric Acid?
The balanced equation is: H₂SO₄ → H₂O + SO₃.
What type of reaction is Thermal Decomposition of Sulfuric Acid?
Thermal Decomposition of Sulfuric Acid is a decomposition reaction. It is reversible under certain conditions.
Is Thermal Decomposition of Sulfuric Acid exothermic or endothermic?
Thermal Decomposition of Sulfuric Acid is endothermic (absorbs energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is 177.0 kJ/mol.