16. in what kind of reaction does a single chemical compound break apart to form smaller products?
a decomposition reaction
single repalcement
b. synthesis reaction
precipitate reacton

A) Decomposition reactions:

Explanation:

When single chemical compound break apart to form smaller products reaction is called decomposition reaction.

Decomposition reaction:

It is the reaction in which one reactant is break down into two or more product.

AB → A + B

Synthesis reaction:

It is the reaction in which two or more simple substance react to give one or more complex product.

Na + Cl →  NaCl

Single replacement:

It is the reaction in which one elements replace the other element in compound.

AB + C → AC + B

Precipitation reaction:

When two solution containing salts are combined produced the precipitate of insoluble salt