The balanced chemical equation for this reaction is:
MgCO₃(s) → MgO(s) + CO₂(g)
Here's what happens:
* When heated, magnesium carbonate breaks down into its component parts.
* The carbonate anion (CO₃²⁻) decomposes into carbon dioxide gas.
* The magnesium cation (Mg²⁺) combines with oxygen from the decomposition of the carbonate to form magnesium oxide.
This reaction is an example of a decomposition reaction, where a single reactant breaks down into two or more products. It is also an endothermic reaction, meaning it requires heat energy to occur.
