The breakdown of a material or substance (initiated by energy input) into simpler compounds is called:

• A. Oxidization
• B. Decomposition
• C. Polymerization
• D. Rearrangement

Answer: (B)

Decomposition is the breakdown of a material into simpler substances when energy is applied. In this type of process, the bonds holding a compound together are broken, yielding two or more smaller products. It’s the opposite of synthesis, which builds a more complex substance from simpler ones. Decomposition often requires heat, light, or a catalyst to proceed.

For example, heating calcium carbonate causes it to decompose into calcium oxide and carbon dioxide, and hydrogen peroxide decomposes into water and oxygen. This concept differs from oxidation (reactions with oxygen or electron loss), polymerization (building larger molecules from smaller units), or rearrangement (changing the structure within a molecule without producing simpler substances).