P

Peroxide

What is Peroxide?

Peroxides are compounds containing the peroxide ion O₂²⁻ (in ionic peroxides such as Na₂O₂) or the –O–O– covalent linkage (in organic peroxides and hydrogen peroxide H₂O₂). The oxygen atoms in peroxides have an oxidation state of −1. Hydrogen peroxide is a common oxidizing and bleaching agent; organic peroxides are used as radical initiators in polymerization. Peroxides are generally reactive and must be handled carefully due to their oxidizing nature.

Key Facts

Term Peroxide

Frequently Asked Questions

Peroxides are compounds containing the peroxide ion O₂²⁻ (in ionic peroxides such as Na₂O₂) or the –O–O– covalent linkage (in organic peroxides and hydrogen peroxide H₂O₂). The oxygen atoms in peroxides have an oxidation state of −1. Hydrogen peroxide is a common oxidizing and bleaching agent; organic peroxides are used as radical initiators in polymerization. Peroxides are generally reactive and must be handled carefully due to their oxidizing nature.

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