Question

With the help of suitable examples, explain the property of $H_2{O}_2$ that is responsible for its bleaching action?

Answer 1

Hydrogen peroxide $\left(H_2{O}_2\right)$ can act as an oxidising agent as well as a reducing agent.

The bleaching action of $H_2{O}_2$ is due to the production of nascent oxygen $\left[O\right]:$

$H_2{O}_2\left(aq\right)\to H_{2}O\left(l\right)+\left[O\right]$

This nascent oxygen combines with coloured material, breaks the chemical bonds and in turn oxidises the substance.

Thus, bleaching action of $H_2{O}_2$ is due to the oxidation of colouring matter by nascent oxygen

Coloured material $+\left[O\right]\to$ colourless material

Hydrogen peroxide $\left(H_2{O}_2\right)$ is used to bleach delicate material like feathers, silk, wool, ivory etc.