Photolysis of Hydrogen Peroxide

H2O2 → 2OH·

Overview

UV light (< 300 nm) cleaves the O–O bond in hydrogen peroxide to generate two hydroxyl radicals, among the most powerful oxidizing species known. This advanced oxidation process (AOP) is widely used in water treatment to destroy organic pollutants that resist conventional treatment methods.

Participants

Role Substance Coefficient State
Reactant Hydrogen Peroxide H₂O₂ 1 (aq)

Everyday Example

UV/H₂O₂ treatment is used to purify drinking water and decontaminate groundwater polluted with industrial chemicals.

Industrial Importance

UV/H₂O₂ advanced oxidation is a key technology for treating contaminated groundwater, pharmaceutical wastewater, and reclaimed water.

Properties

Type
Photochemical
Reversible
No
Energy
Endothermic
ΔH
213.0 kJ/mol

Related Reactions

Chlorophyll Fluorescence Cis-Trans Isomerization of Retinal Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell (Grätzel Cell) Firefly Bioluminescence (Luciferin Oxidation) Luminol Chemiluminescence Ozone Decomposition by UV Ozone Formation by UV Light Photocatalytic NOx Removal Photocatalytic Water Splitting (TiO₂) Photochemical Cycloaddition ([2+2])

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Photolysis of Hydrogen Peroxide?
The balanced equation is: H₂O₂ → 2OH·.
What type of reaction is Photolysis of Hydrogen Peroxide?
Photolysis of Hydrogen Peroxide is a photochemical reaction.
Is Photolysis of Hydrogen Peroxide exothermic or endothermic?
Photolysis of Hydrogen Peroxide is endothermic (absorbs energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is 213.0 kJ/mol.