What process describes the decomposition of a material into other molecules when heated?

The process that describes the decomposition of a material into other molecules when heated is pyrolysis. This process is characterized by the thermal breakdown of complex organic molecules into simpler molecules in the absence of oxygen, which is crucial because it prevents combustion from occurring. Pyrolysis occurs at high temperatures and is commonly used in various applications, including waste management and the production of biofuels.

While thermal degradation might sound similar, it generally refers to the breakdown of materials due to heat but doesn’t necessarily imply the absence of oxygen or result specifically in pyrolysis products. On the other hand, combustion involves the reaction of a substance with oxygen, leading to oxidation and subsequent release of energy, which is not the same as pyrolysis. Therefore, pyrolysis accurately captures the essence of thermal decomposition without combustion taking place.