To increase the rate of decomposition of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) into calcium oxide (CaO) and carbon dioxide (CO2), we can consider the effect of temperature on the reaction. The decomposition of CaCO3 is an endothermic reaction, meaning it absorbs heat.
Among the given options, the best way to increase the rate of decomposition is:
E. increase the temperature.
Increasing the temperature provides more energy to the system, which can help overcome the activation energy barrier for the reaction and favor the decomposition of CaCO3 into CaO and CO2.
Other options would not typically increase the reaction rate:
- A. add CO2: This would shift the equilibrium back towards CaCO3, potentially lowering the rate of decomposition.
- B. remove CO2: This could shift the equilibrium to favor the decomposition, but it may not necessarily increase the rate significantly.
- C. decrease the pressure: This may have little effect as we are dealing with a solid and gas.
- D. decrease the temperature: This would slow down the reaction rate rather than increase it.
Therefore, increasing the temperature is the most effective option.