Hydrogen peroxide naturally undergoes slow disproportionation into water and oxygen, a reaction that — Hydrogen Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

$H_2O_2$ is highly unstable and decomposes upon exposure to light, rough surfaces, or trace heavy metals and alkalis (often present in unlined glass). It is stabilized by being stored in wax-lined or plastic/Teflon bottles in the dark. Chemical stabilizers (negative catalysts) such as urea, acetanilide, and phosphoric acid are also added to significantly retard decomposition.