chemical decomposition

[/ˈkɛmɪkəl ˌdiːkəmˌpoʊˈzɪʃən/]
nounpl: chemical decompositions
decomposição química
1. a chemical process in which a compound breaks down into simpler substances or elements, typically requiring energy input such as heat or light
The chemical decomposition of water produces hydrogen and oxygen gases.
A decomposição química da água produz gases de hidrogênio e oxigênio.
2. the breakdown of organic matter into constituent elements through chemical reactions
Bacterial action causes chemical decomposition of dead organisms in the soil.
A ação bacteriana causa a decomposição química de organismos mortos no solo.
3. the process by which complex molecules are broken down into simpler molecular structures
Chemical decomposition occurs when limestone is heated to produce calcium oxide.
A decomposição química ocorre quando o calcário é aquecido para produzir óxido de cálcio.
This is a technical scientific term used uniformly across English-speaking and Portuguese-speaking countries in academic, industrial, and educational contexts. It is fundamental to chemistry education and environmental science discussions in both Brazil and the United States.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
breakdownchemical breakdowndissociationdegradationdecompositiondisintegration
Antonyms / Antônimos
chemical synthesiscompositioncombinationsynthesis

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
decomposição química
standard term used in educational and scientific contexts
São Paulo
decomposição química
commonly used in industrial and academic settings
Rio de Janeiro
decomposição química
standard usage in scientific communities
Portugal
decomposição química
identical term used in Portuguese scientific literature

Related Words

catalystoxidationreactionmoleculeelementcompoundthermal decompositionphotolysis

Related Idioms & Phrases

break down into components
fall apart chemically
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