Question

Heating of \(\text{Ca(NO}_3)_2\) produces:}

• A. \( \text{NO}_2 \)
• B. \( \text{N}_2\text{O} \)
• C. \( \text{O}_2 \)
• D. \( \text{NO}_2 + \text{O}_2 \)

Hint:

The decomposition of nitrates generally produces nitrogen dioxide (NO\(_2\)) and oxygen (O\(_2\)) upon heating, except for certain exceptions like potassium nitrate which decomposes to give potassium nitrite and oxygen.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

When calcium nitrate (\( \text{Ca(NO}_3\text{)}_2 \)) is heated, it undergoes thermal decomposition. The reaction is as follows: \[ \text{Ca(NO}_3\text{)}_2 \xrightarrow{\text{heat}} \text{CaO} + 2 \text{NO}_2 + \text{O}_2 \] Here, calcium nitrate decomposes to form calcium oxide (CaO), nitrogen dioxide (NO\(_2\)), and oxygen (O\(_2\)). The correct decomposition product is NO\(_2\) and O\(_2\). Thus, the correct answer is (D) \( \text{NO}_2 + \text{O}_2 \).