Question

From the following statements regarding ${{H}_{2}}{{O}_{2}}$, choose the incorrect statement?
(A) it can only act as an oxidizing agent
(B) it decomposes on exposure to light
(C) it has to be stored in plastic or wax, lined glass bottles in dark
(D) it has to be kept away from dust

Answer 1

Hint: Hydrogen peroxide is a chemical compound with the formula ${{H}_{2}}{{O}_{2}}$.In its pure form, it is a very pale blue liquid, slightly more viscous than water. Hydrogen peroxide is the simplest peroxide. It is used as an oxidizer, bleaching agent, and antiseptic.

Complete step by step answer:
To know which statement is correct or incorrect we will consider each statement one by one.
Considering option (A), it can only act as an oxidizing agent. Hydrogen peroxide can act as oxidizing as well as reducing agent.For example, in acidic medium, it oxidizes ferrous ions to ferric ions. In acidic medium, hydrogen peroxide reduces HOCl to chloride ion. Therefore this statement is incorrect.
Considering option (B), it decomposes on exposure to light. It decomposes on exposure to light to form water and oxygen.
\[2{{H}_{2}}{{O}_{2}}\rightleftharpoons 2{{H}_{2}}O+{{O}_{2}}\]
Therefore this statement is correct.

Considering option (C), It has to be stored in plastic or wax, lined glass bottles in dark to prevent its decomposition.Thus, the option (C) is correct.

Considering option (D), It has to be kept away from dust as it decomposes in presence of dust.
Thus, the option (D) is correct.
So, the correct answer is “Option A”.

Note: Hydrogen Peroxide is sold in brown (or dark) bottles because it can decompose into water if it's exposed to light. Opaque bottles keep the light out, preventing the unwanted chemical reactions from taking place.