Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a pale blue liquid which appears colorless in a dilute solution, and it's a powerful oxidizer. It's used for various purposes, including as an antiseptic and bleach.
Oxidation: This is a chemical reaction that involves the moving of electrons. In this case, hydrogen peroxide acts as an oxidizing agent to kill bacteria.
Antiseptic: A substance that prevents or stops growth of microorganisms. Hydrogen peroxide is often used as an antiseptic on minor cuts or burns to prevent infection.
Bleaching Agent: A substance that lightens or whitens another substance through oxidation. Hydrogen peroxide can act as a bleaching agent for hair and teeth.
AP Chemistry - 4.1 Introduction for Reactions
AP Chemistry - 4.9 Oxidation-Reduction (Redox) Reactions
AP Chemistry - 5.11 Catalysis
Study guides for the entire semester
200k practice questions
Glossary of 50k key terms - memorize important vocab
About Fiveable
Blog
Careers
Code of Conduct
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
CCPA Privacy Policy
Cram Mode
AP Score Calculators
Study Guides
Practice Quizzes
Glossary
Cram Events
Merch Shop
Crisis Text Line
Help Center
About Fiveable
Blog
Careers
Code of Conduct
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
CCPA Privacy Policy
Cram Mode
AP Score Calculators
Study Guides
Practice Quizzes
Glossary
Cram Events
Merch Shop
Crisis Text Line
Help Center
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.