A reaction that is essentially the opposite of a synthesis reaction describes which of the following?

a) oxidation-reduction

b) decomposition

c) displacement

d) combustion

Answer is: b) decomposition.

Synthesis is reaction of two or more substances combining to make a more complex substance.

Decomposition is reaction where one substance is broken down into two or more simpler substances.

For example, balanced chemical reactio:

CaCO₃ (s) → CaO (s) + CO₂ (g).

Chemical decomposition is the separation of a single chemical compound (in this example calcium carbonate) into its two or more simpler compounds (in this example calcium oxide and carbon dioxide).

Combustion is reaction with oxygen.

Single Displacement is reaction where neutral element metal or nonmetal become an ion as it replaces another ion in a compound.

Double displacement reactions (more reactive metals displace metals with lower reactivity).