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Copy file name to clipboardExpand all lines: notes/2025-04-12-hydrogen-peroxide-en.md
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Hydrogen peroxide is a chemical compound with the formula H$$_2$$O$$_2$$. It is a colorless liquid that is slightly more viscous than water and has a slightly sharp odor[1][3]. Hydrogen peroxide is known for its strong oxidizing properties, making it useful as a bleaching agent, antiseptic, and disinfectant[1][4].
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Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) is a colorless liquid chemical compound with a slightly pungent odor. It is a common household chemical and has various industrial and medicinal uses.
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### Uses of Hydrogen Peroxide
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**Chemical Properties:**
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1.**Bleaching and Disinfecting**: Hydrogen peroxide is widely used for bleaching textiles, wood pulp, and paper. It is also used as a disinfectant for surfaces and in contact lens care[2][3].
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***Molecular Structure:** It consists of two hydrogen atoms and two oxygen atoms bonded together. The oxygen atoms are linked by a single bond, and each oxygen atom is also bonded to a hydrogen atom.
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***Oxidizing Agent:** Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful oxidizing agent, meaning it readily donates oxygen atoms to other substances. This property is responsible for many of its uses, such as bleaching and disinfection.
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***Decomposition:** It is unstable and readily decomposes into water (H₂O) and oxygen gas (O₂) especially in the presence of catalysts like metals, metal ions, or light. This decomposition releases heat.
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***Acidic Nature:** It is a weak acid.
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***Solubility:** It is miscible with water, alcohol, and ether.
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2.**Cosmetic Applications**: It is used in hair dyes and teeth whitening products. Over-the-counter teeth whitening products typically contain up to 6% hydrogen peroxide, while professional products can contain up to 35%[4].
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**Common Uses:**
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3.**Industrial Uses**: Concentrated hydrogen peroxide is used in rocket propulsion and as a component in the production of chemicals and foam rubber[1][3].
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***Antiseptic:** It is used as a mild antiseptic to clean minor cuts, scrapes, and burns to prevent infection.
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***Mouthwash:** It can be used as a mouth rinse to help remove mucus and relieve minor mouth irritation.
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***Teeth Whitening:** It is an active ingredient in many over-the-counter and professional teeth whitening products.
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***Hair Bleaching/Lightening:** It is used to lighten hair color.
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***Cleaning and Disinfecting:** It is used as a household cleaner and disinfectant for surfaces, laundry, and even food.
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***Stain Removal:** It can effectively remove various stains like blood, wine, and grass.
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***Industrial Uses:** In higher concentrations, it is used as a bleaching agent for textiles and paper pulp, in chemical manufacturing, wastewater treatment, and even as a rocket propellant.
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4.**Medical Applications**: At low concentrations (1-5%), hydrogen peroxide is used as an antiseptic for minor cuts and scrapes[4][6].
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**Safety Precautions:**
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### Safety Considerations
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-**Concentration and Safety**: Solutions above 8% can be corrosive to the skin, and concentrated hydrogen peroxide is highly reactive and potentially explosive when heated[2][4].
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-**Exposure Risks**: Ingestion, inhalation, or contact with concentrated hydrogen peroxide can be harmful, causing irritation and potentially more severe effects[4].
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### Natural Occurrence
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Hydrogen peroxide occurs naturally in small amounts in the environment, including air, water, and biological systems[3].
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