Answer: Light and rough surfaces catalyse its decomposition.
- A Light and rough surfaces catalyse its decomposition
- B It is very volatile and evaporates fast
- C It reacts violently with the silica in glass
- D It freezes very readily near room temperature
Correct answer: A. Light and rough surfaces catalyse its decomposition
Explanation: H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub> decomposes to water and oxygen; light, heat and ions present in ordinary glass catalyse this, so it is kept in dark wax-lined or plastic containers.
Each water molecule's O-H bonds (covalent, solid) can hydrogen-bond (dashed) to neighbouring molecules, forming an extended network responsible for water's unusually high boiling point and density anomaly.
Concept context
The simplest and most abundant element in the universe. Study its unique position in the periodic table, isotopes (protium, deuterium, tritium), properties of water and hydrogen peroxide, and industrial uses.