Question

From the following statements regarding $H_2{O}_2$, choose the incorrect statement?

• A. It can act only as an oxidizing agent.
• B. It decomposes on exposure to light.
• C. It has to be stored in plastic or wax, lined glass bottles in dark.
• D. It has to be kept away from dust.

Answer 1

The correct option is A It can act only as an oxidizing agent.

(A) Hydrogen peroxide can act as oxidizing as well as reducing agent.
For example, in acidic medium, it oxidizes ferrous ions to ferric ions.
$2F{e}^{2+}+H_2{O}_2+2H^{+}\to 2F{e}^{3+}+2H_{2}O$

In acidic medium, hydrogen peroxide reduces HOCl to chloride ion.
$HOCl+H_2{O}_2\to H^{+}+C{l}^{-}+H_{2}O+O_2$
Thus, the option A is incorrect.

(B) It decomposes on exposure to light to form water and oxygen.
$2H_2{O}_2\rightleftharpoons 2H_{2}O+O_2$
Thus, the option (B) is correct.

(C) It has to be stored in plastic or wax, lined glass bottles in dark to prevent its decomposition.
Thus, the option (C) is correct.

(D) It has to be kept away from dust as it decomposes in presence of dust.
Thus, the option (D) is correct.