double decomposition

noun

, Chemistry.

1. a reaction whose result is the interchange of two parts of two substances to form two new substances, as AgNO 3 + NaCl → AgCl + NaNO 3 .

double decomposition

noun

1. a chemical reaction between two compounds that results in the interchange of one part of each to form two different compounds, as in AgNO 3 + KI → AgI + KNO 3 Also calledmetathesis

Word History and Origins

Origin of double decomposition¹

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

Those of muriate or sulphate of soda change the potash into a soda soap, by double decomposition.

From Project Gutenberg

Under this process ammonium nitrate is produced by the double decomposition of ammonium sulphate and sodium nitrate.

From Project Gutenberg

This enters into double decomposition with the salt, as shown in the first equation under the Solvay process.

From Project Gutenberg

The benzoates may, in general, be easily prepared by either neutralising the acid with the base, or by double decomposition.

From Project Gutenberg

The soluble chromates may all be made by direct solution of the base in the acid, or by double decomposition.

From Project Gutenberg