What term describes a molecular reaction that results in an uncontrolled release of energy?

The term that accurately describes a molecular reaction resulting in an uncontrolled release of energy is polymerization, in certain contexts, particularly referring to exothermic reactions where large molecules are formed from smaller units, often releasing significant amounts of energy in the process. In the context of specific types of polymerization, such as addition polymerization, this can lead to rapid changes in temperature and pressure, which exemplifies an uncontrolled release of energy.

While decomposition, sublimation, and oxidation involve changes in chemical states or compounds, they do not necessarily imply the large-scale energy release associated with certain polymerization reactions. For example, decomposition typically refers to the breakdown of a compound into smaller components and may involve energy absorption rather than release. Sublimation is the transition from solid to gas without passing through a liquid state and does not inherently involve changes in energy states in the same manner as polymerization. Oxidation involves the reaction with oxygen or the loss of electrons but again does not directly equate to an uncontrolled energy release as depicted in the context of some polymerization reactions.