Hydrogen Peroxide Report

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Louis Jacque Thenard discovered hydrogen peroxide in 1818. Hydrogen peroxide is a common compound that people use in their everyday lives. It is a strong oxidizing agent and a weak acid. Hydroxide peroxide does not come in 100% concentrations, however, it mostly comes in concentrations of three percent, ten percent and thirty-five percent. The concentrations vary anywhere from 3% - 90%. The chemical formula is similar to the formula of water however, it has an extra oxygen atom. Its formula is H2O2. It is also known as HO-OH, dihydrogen peroxide, Hioxy and Proxy. This compound is a molecular compound as it contains two elements that are non-metals. Hydrogen peroxide has covalent bonds because unlike ionic compounds that transfer electrons, they share their electrons in order to receive a full outer shell of eight electrons.

There are properties both physical and chemical that can define hydrogen peroxide. In regards to the physical properties, hydrogen peroxide is mostly found in a liquid state however, it can also be in a solid and gas state. It has a density of 1.45 g/cm3. This means that hydrogen peroxide is slightly denser than water. It is a clear and colourless liquid. Also, hydrogen peroxide has a boiling point of 150.2°C which means that when hydrogen peroxide is in liquid form it takes 150.2°C for the liquid to turn into vapour. Hydrogen peroxide has a melting point of 0.43°C. This indicates that the solid form hydrogen peroxide will change into a liquid at the temperature of 0.43°C. It is a weak acid with an average pH level of 6.2. It is almost a neutral substance as it is close to a pH level of 7. It is soluble in water and when it breaks down, it does not form any toxic or harmful compounds. Hydrogen peroxide is a ...

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...many steps involved in treating it successfully. Long-sleeved clothing should be worn. Nitrile or super nitrile gloves should be worn and safety glasses, googles or a face shield should be worn. Barrier cream should be applied on hands prior to use. One other person should be present in the laboratory. When not in use, keep containers closed and in an upright position. Also when not in use, containers with hydrogen peroxide should be kept away from sources of heat including sunlight and Bunsen burners. Keep combustible materials away from hydrogen peroxide. Prevent build-up of mists or vapours in the atmosphere. Ensure a supply of water is readily available. Maintain a high level of personal hygiene when using this product, by always washing hands before eating, drinking, smoking or using toilet facilities. It is advisable to apply a moisturiser after washing hands.

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