Step 1: Thermal Decomposition of Lithium Nitrate
The decomposition reaction for lithium nitrate is:
\[
4LiNO_3 \rightarrow 2Li_2O + 4NO_2 + O_2
\]
Step 2: Explanation of Products
Lithium nitrate decomposes to form lithium oxide (\( Li_2O \)), nitrogen dioxide (\( NO_2 \)), and oxygen (\( O_2 \)).
The presence of \( NO_2 \) and \( O_2 \) confirms the decomposition follows a distinct pathway compared to other nitrates.
Thus, the correct answer is (D).