
What is the difference between peroxide and superoxide?
Answer
433.2k+ views
Hint : Oxides are compounds containing one or more oxygen atoms. Both peroxide and superoxide are oxides that contain oxygen atoms. But there are some differences between these oxides. Oxidation state of peroxide and superoxide is different.
Complete Step By Step Answer:
Peroxides are composed of an oxygen-oxygen single bond. Where the bond length is The electronic charge on peroxide is . Examples of peroxide compounds include , and
Now, let’s talk about superoxide.
Superoxides are compounds containing the anion , The electronic charge is , The bond length in superoxide is . Examples of superoxide compounds include , and
The major difference between a peroxide and a superoxide is the oxidation state of oxygen. In superoxide, the oxidation state of oxygen is . While in case of peroxide, the oxidation state of oxygen is
Important point to keep in mind is that metals such as alkali, earth alkali and non-metals can form peroxide compounds. But only alkali metals can form superoxide compounds.
Additional Information:
If superoxide is dissolved in water, it will rapidly undergo a disproportionation reaction forming and ions. Peroxides can be easily found in nature and in biological systems. Some plants use peroxide as a signalling chemical. Certain cells in our body use peroxides to catalyse the chemical reactions. Peroxide is also a very useful reagent in organic chemistry.
Note :
Apart from oxidation state there are many other differences as well between these oxides. Hydrogen peroxide is the simplest peroxide. Also, superoxide is composed of highly reactive oxygen atoms.
Complete Step By Step Answer:
Peroxides are composed of an oxygen-oxygen single bond. Where the
Now, let’s talk about superoxide.
Superoxides are compounds containing the anion
The major difference between a peroxide and a superoxide is the oxidation state of oxygen. In superoxide, the oxidation state of oxygen is
Important point to keep in mind is that metals such as alkali, earth alkali and non-metals can form peroxide compounds. But only alkali metals can form superoxide compounds.
Additional Information:
If superoxide is dissolved in water, it will rapidly undergo a disproportionation reaction forming
Note :
Apart from oxidation state there are many other differences as well between these oxides. Hydrogen peroxide is the simplest peroxide. Also, superoxide is composed of highly reactive oxygen atoms.
Latest Vedantu courses for you
Grade 11 Science PCM | CBSE | SCHOOL | English
CBSE (2025-26)
School Full course for CBSE students
₹41,848 per year
Recently Updated Pages
Master Class 11 Business Studies: Engaging Questions & Answers for Success

Master Class 11 Economics: Engaging Questions & Answers for Success

Master Class 11 Accountancy: Engaging Questions & Answers for Success

Master Class 11 Computer Science: Engaging Questions & Answers for Success

Master Class 11 English: Engaging Questions & Answers for Success

Master Class 11 Maths: Engaging Questions & Answers for Success

Trending doubts
Which one is a true fish A Jellyfish B Starfish C Dogfish class 11 biology CBSE

The flightless birds Rhea Kiwi and Emu respectively class 11 biology CBSE

Difference Between Prokaryotic Cells and Eukaryotic Cells

1 ton equals to A 100 kg B 1000 kg C 10 kg D 10000 class 11 physics CBSE

One Metric ton is equal to kg A 10000 B 1000 C 100 class 11 physics CBSE

How much is 23 kg in pounds class 11 chemistry CBSE
