Fenton's Reaction
Fe2+ + H2O2 → Fe3+ + OH− + OH·
Overview
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.
Participants
| Role | Substance | Coefficient | State |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reactant | Hydrogen Peroxide H₂O₂ | 1 | (aq) |
Everyday Example
Fenton's chemistry occurs naturally in the body when iron and hydrogen peroxide interact, which is why excess free iron can cause oxidative damage.
Industrial Importance
Fenton's reagent is used in wastewater treatment to degrade recalcitrant organic pollutants, in soil remediation, and in advanced oxidation processes for water purification.
Properties
- Type
- Redox
- Reversible
- No
- Energy
- Exothermic
- ΔH
- -40.0 kJ/mol
Related Reactions
Aqua Regia Dissolving Gold
Bleaching with Sodium Hypochlorite
Cerium(IV) Reduction by Iron(II)
Chlorine Oxidation of Bromide
Chromate-Dichromate Equilibrium
Contact Process SO₂ Oxidation
Copper Displaced by Iron
Copper Oxidation by Nitric Acid
Copper Patina Formation (Verdigris)
Copper Reduction of Silver Ion
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.