Is 2H2O2(aq)=2H2O(l) + O2 (g), only decomposition, or also combustion?

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Answer 1 · 2018-02-11T10:54:42

This is formally a disproportionation reaction....

Formally we gots...#O(-I)#, an unusual oxidation state....because of the peroxo linkage...which is REDUCED to #O(-II)# in water...

#H_2O_2(l) +2H^+ +2e^(-)rarr 2H_2O(l)# #(i)#

And peroxide could ALSO be OXIDIZED to dioxygen gas...

#H_2O_2(l) rarr O_2(g)+2H^+ +2e^(-)# #(ii)#

And so we simply take #(i)+(ii)# to eliminate the electrons...

#2H_2O_2(l) +2H^+ +2e^(-) rarr O_2(g)+2H^+ +2e^(-)+2H_2O(l)#

#2H_2O_2(l) rarr O_2(g)+2H_2O(l)#

The which is balanced with respect to mass and charge....as required..