2.21 describe the formation of carbon dioxide from the thermal decomposition of metal carbonates such as copper(II) carbonate

The thermal decomposition (heating)  of metal carbonates will produce CO2 as, in thermal decomposition, the substance being heated will break down into simpler substances.

Method

- Put some copper(II) carbonate (its a green powder, if your wondering) into a test tube and insert a bung with a delivery tube at the top
- Clamp the test tube at a 90º angle and insert the delivery tube into another test tube (that is positioned vertically)
- Heat the copper(II) carbonate with a bunsen burner.

NOTE: Because CO2 is denser than air, the downward delivery method can be used.

Equations

Copper(II) carbonate ---> copper oxide + carbon dioxide

CuCO3(g) ---> CuO(s) + CO2(g)