Question

Which type of reaction occurs in the following?

2HgO(s) Right arrow. 2Hg(l) + O2(g)
a decomposition reaction in which a metal is reduced
an acid-base neutralization reaction to produce oxygen gas
a displacement reaction involving two metals
a combustion reaction involving burning a metal in oxygen

Answer 1

a decomposition reaction in which a metal is reduced

Explanation: HgO thermally decomposes to Hg and O2 (decomposition). Hg goes from +2 in HgO to 0 in Hg (reduced), while O2 goes from −2 to 0 (oxidized). It's not an acid‑base, displacement, or combustion reaction.