Question

For decomposition: why does 2KClO3 become ---> 2KCl+3O2?

Answer 1

Like your reaction shows, potassium chlorate, or `KClO_3`, undergoes thermal decomposition to form potassium chloride, `KCl`, and oxygen gas, `O_2`.

Now, a decomposition reaction will leave behind products that are as stable as possible. Heat is used to break the bonds of a compound, after which new bonds will be formed between the elements that formed the original compound.

In the case of potassium chlorate, intense heating will produce a very stable ionic compound, potassium chloride, in solid state.

Solid ionic compounds are very resistant to heat, which means they are more stable; therefore, the formation of such a product will be favored.

Here's how the reaction is set up

Here is a look at the reaction when potassium chlorate decomposes. The crucible contains potassium chlorate and sugar. The decomposition of the potassium chlorate produces a large amount of oxygen gas, which allows the sugar to burn very rapidly. This same reaction is used in fireworks.

video from: Noel Pauller