Question

If a sample of dilute hydrogen peroxide is left standing it will undergo disproportionation.
Discuss the reaction that occurs. Include observations and equations in your discussion and a reason for the reaction that occurs.

Answer 1

\[E ^{0}(H _{2}O _{2}/H _{2}O)=+1.77V \rightarrow E ^{0}(O _{2}/ H _{2}O _{2})=+0.68V\]

Answer 2

h202 gives positive potenial . so gibbs free energy change is negative,so spontaneous

Answer 3

In the two couples provided, H2O2 is the stronger oxidising agent AND the stronger reducing agent at the same time.

This is why it will spontaneously react on itself in a disproportionation reaction, forming water and oxygen.