Hydrogen peroxide, H2O2, changes in the presence of a catalyst in the following reaction. What type of chemical reaction is this?

2H2O2 (aq) → 2H2O (l) + O2 (g)

a) synthesis reaction

b) decomposition reaction

c) single replacement reaction

d) combustion reaction

The correct answer is option b) decomposition reaction.

Explanation:

In a decomposition reaction, a single substance decomposes, producing two or more different substances. The atoms that form a compound are separated to give the products according to the formula:

AB → A + B

This type of reactions can occur spontaneously or caused by certain external factors that promote the breakdown of the molecule into simpler substances.

If the decomposition occurs by the action of a catalyst, as in this case, it is called catalysis. A catalyst is one of the external factors that can promote the breakdown of molecules.

So, the correct answer is option b) decomposition reaction.

I believe that the answer should be d, since I've seen a smilliar problem before.