What are the products formed when Li ₂ CO ₃ undergoes decomposition?

Step-by-step solution

Lithium carbonate decomposes differently from other alkali metal carbonates due to the small size and high polarizing power of the Li ^+ ion, which lowers its thermal stability. The decomposition products are lithium oxide and carbon dioxide: Li ₂ CO ₃ (s) Li ₂ O (s) + CO ₂ (g) Among the options, only A provides the correct decomposition products: Li ₂ O + CO ₂ . Option B has an incorrect formula LiO , option C yields an implausible carbide, and option D produces peroxide and carbon monoxide, none of which match.