Hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a chemical compound. Its molecular formula is H2O2. It is used as a cleaner, and as hair bleach. In a concentration of 3% (meaning that there are 3 grams of hydrogen peroxide for 100 grams of a water solution), it can be used to treat wounds. Over time, it will slowly become oxygen gas and water through decomposition. 

Chemists often use hydrogen peroxide in chemical reactions. It is a very strong oxidising agent when used with acid and water. Oxidising agents take electrons from other compounds.

Here hydrogen peroxide takes an electron from the  ions and becomes water. The iron is oxidised (loses electrons) to the  ion. 

It can also be a reducing agent when used with stronger oxidisers like sodium hypochlorite. When it acts as a reducing agent, oxygen gas is also produced. Reducing agents give electrons to other compounds. This method is often used to make oxygen in laboratories.

Hydrogen peroxide can be bought in shops when mixed with lots of water but is very dangerous when the concentration is higher. Because it is an oxidiser, it can cause flammable materials to ignite.

Category:Peroxides
Category:Hydrogen compounds
Category:Oxidizing agents