The decomposition of CuSO₄ (copper(II) sulfate) depends on the conditions under which it occurs. Here are the main possibilities:

1. Thermal Decomposition:

* At moderate temperatures (around 200°C): CuSO₄ loses water of crystallization, turning from blue crystals (CuSO₄·5H₂O) to a white powder (anhydrous CuSO₄):

CuSO₄·5H₂O → CuSO₄ + 5H₂O

* At higher temperatures (above 650°C): Anhydrous CuSO₄ further decomposes into copper(II) oxide (CuO), sulfur trioxide (SO₃), and oxygen gas:

2CuSO₄ → 2CuO + 2SO₃ + O₂

2. Electrolysis:

* In an electrolytic cell with copper electrodes and a solution of CuSO₄, the following reactions occur:

* Anode (oxidation): Cu → Cu²⁺ + 2e^-

* Cathode (reduction): Cu²⁺ + 2e^- → Cu

This results in the transfer of copper ions from the anode to the cathode, effectively decomposing CuSO₄.

3. Reaction with other substances:

* CuSO₄ can react with various substances to form different products, effectively "decomposing" it in the process. For example:

* Reaction with NaOH: CuSO₄ + 2NaOH → Cu(OH)₂ + Na₂SO₄

* Reaction with BaCl₂: CuSO₄ + BaCl₂ → BaSO₄ + CuCl₂

In summary: The decomposition of CuSO₄ can occur through various pathways depending on the conditions and reagents involved. The most common are thermal decomposition, which leads to the formation of copper oxide and sulfur trioxide, and electrolysis, which results in the transfer of copper ions.