What does CO2 decompose into?

Question

Is the reaction:

CO2 --> C + O2

Or

2CO2 --> 2CO + O2

? Just curious.

milton b · Accepted Answer

Neither is correct.  CO2 does not decompose, it is a decomposition product.

xeniorn · Answer

Neither of the reactions happen in normal conditions. While the second reaction might be possible in a very low extent, it doesn't happen in air anytime.

CO2 is an end product, the most stable form in the carbon cycle. All organic matter ultimately decomposes to CO2, and there is no further decomposition. Plants absorb CO2 and create more complex molecules from it, and so reintroduce it to the cycle so it can be decomposed again... to CO2.

---> since you added details: at 1000K (don't write °K, it's wrong, it's just K, it's different than °C) the second reaction can occur, although I would not call it a "decomposition".

Anonymous · Answer

Decomposition Of Carbon Dioxide

jane doe · Answer

Carbon dioxide is a small, stable molecule and is very unlikely to decompose. As it is very stable, if a reaction produces CO2 then this is often a driving force for the reaction to occur.

in reference to the options, I would say that the second equation looks more sensible as producing elemental carbon is highly unlikely.

What does CO2 decompose into?

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