Thermal Decomposition of Lead(IV) Oxide

2PbO₂ → 2PbO + O₂

Overview

Lead(IV) oxide (lead dioxide) decomposes when heated above 290 C to form lead(II) oxide and oxygen. This decomposition reflects the instability of the +4 oxidation state for lead. Lead dioxide is a strong oxidizer used in lead-acid batteries.

Participants

Role	Substance	Coefficient	State
Product	Oxygen O	1	(g)

Everyday Example

The positive plates of car batteries contain lead dioxide, which undergoes reduction (not this thermal decomposition) during discharge.

Industrial Importance

Understanding PbO2 stability is critical for lead-acid battery design. Lead dioxide is also used as an electrode material in water treatment and chemical synthesis.

Properties

Type: Decomposition
Reversible: No
Energy: Endothermic
ΔH: 118.4 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 Thermal Decomposition of Lead(IV) Oxide?

The balanced equation is: 2PbO₂ → 2PbO + O₂.

What type of reaction is Thermal Decomposition of Lead(IV) Oxide?

Thermal Decomposition of Lead(IV) Oxide is a decomposition reaction.

Is Thermal Decomposition of Lead(IV) Oxide exothermic or endothermic?

Thermal Decomposition of Lead(IV) Oxide is endothermic (absorbs energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is 118.4 kJ/mol.