Fenton's Reaction

Fe2+ + H2O2 → Fe3+ + OH− + OH·

Descripción general

Fenton's reagent generates highly reactive hydroxyl radicals (OH·) from iron(II) and hydrogen peroxide. The hydroxyl radical is one of the strongest oxidizers known, capable of degrading virtually any organic compound. Fe²⁺ is oxidized to Fe³⁺ while H₂O₂ is reduced.

Participantes

Rol Sustancia Coeficiente Estado
Reactivo Hydrogen Peroxide H₂O₂ 1 (aq)

Ejemplo cotidiano

Fenton's chemistry occurs naturally in the body when iron and hydrogen peroxide interact, which is why excess free iron can cause oxidative damage.

Importancia industrial

El reactivo de Fenton se emplea en el tratamiento de aguas residuales para degradar contaminantes orgánicos recalcitrantes, en remediación de suelos y en procesos de oxidación avanzada.

Propiedades

Tipo
Redox
Reversible
No
Energía
Exotérmico
ΔH
-40,0 kJ/mol

Reacciones relacionadas

Iron(II) to Iron(III) Oxidation by Oxygen Bleaching with Sodium Hypochlorite Copper Reduction of Silver Ion Aqua Regia Dissolving Gold Cerium(IV) Reduction by Iron(II) Chlorine Oxidation of Bromide Copper Oxidation by Nitric Acid Hypochlorite Oxidation of Hydrogen Peroxide Hydrogen Peroxide as Oxidizing Agent (Acidic) Displacement of Hydrogen from Acid by Magnesium

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Fenton's Reaction?
The balanced equation is: Fe²⁺ + H₂O₂ → Fe³⁺ + OH⁻ + OH·.
What type of reaction is Fenton's Reaction?
Fenton's Reaction is a redox reaction.
Is Fenton's Reaction exothermic or endothermic?
Fenton's Reaction is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -40.0 kJ/mol.