Here's the general chemical equation:
M(OH)n → MxOy + H2O
Where:
* M represents the metal
* n is the charge of the metal ion
* x and y are the subscripts needed to balance the chemical equation
Examples:
* Copper(II) hydroxide (Cu(OH)2) decomposes to copper(II) oxide (CuO) and water:
Cu(OH)2 → CuO + H2O
* Aluminum hydroxide (Al(OH)3) decomposes to aluminum oxide (Al2O3) and water:
2Al(OH)3 → Al2O3 + 3H2O
Note:
* The decomposition of metal hydroxides usually requires heat.
* The specific temperature required for decomposition varies depending on the metal.
* Some metal hydroxides, like sodium hydroxide (NaOH), are very stable and don't decompose easily.
