The following diagram represents the collection of elements formed by a decomposition reaction. (b) Could you draw a diagram representing the molecules of the compound that had been decomposed? Why or why not?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the elements present in the diagram. The green spheres represent one element, and the yellow spheres represent another element.
2. Observe the arrangement of the spheres. The green spheres are paired together, indicating they form diatomic molecules. The yellow spheres are single, indicating they are individual atoms.
3. Consider the decomposition reaction. A compound decomposes into its constituent elements. In this case, the compound must have contained both green and yellow spheres.
4. To draw the original compound, combine the green and yellow spheres in a way that represents a single molecule. Since the green spheres are diatomic, the original compound likely had a formula where one green diatomic molecule is bonded to one or more yellow atoms.
5. Draw a diagram with the green diatomic molecule (two green spheres) bonded to the yellow atoms. This represents the compound before decomposition.

Key Concepts

Decomposition Reaction

A decomposition reaction is a type of chemical reaction where a single compound breaks down into two or more simpler products. This process often requires energy input, such as heat, light, or electricity. Understanding this concept is crucial for analyzing the diagram, as it illustrates the elements resulting from the breakdown of a compound.

Molecular Representation

Molecular representation involves depicting the arrangement and types of atoms in a molecule. In the context of the question, drawing the original compound before decomposition requires knowledge of how atoms bond to form molecules, which is essential for visualizing the transformation that occurs during a decomposition reaction.

Elemental Composition

Elemental composition refers to the types and quantities of elements that make up a compound. In the provided diagram, the green and yellow spheres represent different elements. Recognizing the elemental composition is vital for understanding what the original compound was and how its decomposition leads to the formation of individual elements.