Decomposition of Zinc Carbonate

ZnCO₃ → ZnO + CO₂

Overview

Zinc carbonate decomposes when heated to form zinc oxide and carbon dioxide gas. Zinc carbonate (smithsonite) is an important zinc ore. The resulting zinc oxide is a versatile compound used in rubber manufacturing, ceramics, and medicine.

Participants

Role	Substance	Coefficient	State
Product	Carbon Dioxide CO₂	1	(g)

Everyday Example

Calamine lotion, used to soothe itchy skin and insect bites, contains zinc oxide produced from zinc carbonate ore processing.

Industrial Importance

This decomposition is an important step in zinc oxide production for rubber vulcanization, ceramic glazes, and pharmaceutical ointments.

Properties

Type: Decomposition
Reversible: No
Energy: Endothermic
ΔH: 67.4 kJ/mol

Related Reactions

Cracking of Octane (Thermal Cracking) Decomposition of Ammonium Nitrate Decomposition of Barium Peroxide Decomposition of Calcium Carbonate (Calcination) Decomposition of Calcium Hypochlorite Decomposition of Carbonic Acid Decomposition of Hydrogen Peroxide Decomposition of Iron(II,III) Oxide (Direct Reduction) Decomposition of Nitroglycerin Decomposition of Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Decomposition of Zinc Carbonate?

The balanced equation is: ZnCO₃ → ZnO + CO₂.

What type of reaction is Decomposition of Zinc Carbonate?

Decomposition of Zinc Carbonate is a decomposition reaction.

Is Decomposition of Zinc Carbonate exothermic or endothermic?

Decomposition of Zinc Carbonate is endothermic (absorbs energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is 67.4 kJ/mol.