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The balanced equation which shows the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide is:
2HO 2 → 2HO + O 2
H 2 O 2 → 2H 2 O + O 2
H 2 O 2 → H 2 O + O 2
2H 2 O 2 → 2H 2 O + O 2
2H 2 O 2 → 2H 2 O + O 2
The decomposition of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a catalytic process where it breaks down into water and oxygen. The balanced chemical equation for this reaction is 2H2O2 → 2H2O + O2.
The decomposition of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a catalytic process where it breaks down into water and oxygen. The balanced chemical equation for this reaction is 2H2O2 → 2H2O + O2.
Chemical decomposition reactions are essential in understanding the working of catalysts like Manganese Dioxide (MnO2) often used in lab demonstrations of oxygen production.
Hydrogen peroxide is a strong oxidizing agent used in disinfectants and rocket fuel.
The reaction is exothermic, releasing energy when the chemical bonds break.
Manganese dioxide (MnO2) is commonly used as a catalyst to speed up this decomposition.
The decomposition rate is accelerated by light, heat, and contaminants, which is why it is stored in dark, opaque bottles.
Option B (H2O2 → 2H2O + O2) is unbalanced as it does not satisfy the Law of Conservation of Mass.
A chemical equation is considered 'balanced' when the number of atoms of each element is the same on both the reactant and product sides.
D is correct — 2H2O2 → 2H2O + O2 is the balanced chemical equation for the decomposition process.
In competitive exams, always check for the Law of Conservation of Mass by counting atoms on both sides before marking an equation as balanced; it is a common way to disqualify wrong options instantly.