Hydrogen peroxide
Molar mass: 34.01 g/mol · Class: Oxide (bleaching agent)
Elements: hydrogen, oxygen
Structure
The molecule has two oxygens bonded to each other, each carrying a hydrogen (H-O-O-H), in a skewed, non-planar shape. The weak O-O bond breaks easily, releasing reactive oxygen.
Properties
Strong oxidizing agent
Decomposes to water and oxygen, faster with light, heat, or catalysts
Household 3% solution is mild; concentrated forms are hazardous
Bleaches hair, fabrics, and paper
Applications
Wound disinfection (3% solution)
Hair bleach and teeth whitening
Industrial bleaching of paper and textiles
Household 3% is mildly irritating to eyes; concentrated peroxide (above ~10%) burns skin, bleaches it white, and can ignite flammable materials. Never mix with vinegar or other chemicals casually, and store in the dark, away from heat.
Data source: IUPAC standard atomic weights 2021; molar mass computed from H2O2