Thermal Decomposition of Sodium Percarbonate
2Na2CO3·3H2O2 → 2Na2CO3 + 3H2O2
Overview
Sodium percarbonate dissolves in water to release hydrogen peroxide and sodium carbonate. This controlled release of H2O2 makes it an effective solid oxygen bleach. It is marketed as an environmentally friendly alternative to chlorine bleach.
Participants
| Role | Substance | Coefficient | State |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reactant | Sodium Percarbonate 2Na₂CO₃·3H₂O₂ | 2 | (s) |
| Product | Sodium Carbonate Na₂CO₃ | 2 | (s) |
| Product | Hydrogen Peroxide H₂O₂ | 3 | (aq) |
Everyday Example
OxiClean and similar oxygen bleach products contain sodium percarbonate that releases hydrogen peroxide when dissolved in water.
Industrial Importance
Sodium percarbonate is a major component of green cleaning products and oxygen-based laundry detergents, replacing environmentally harmful chlorine bleach.
Properties
- Type
- Decomposition
- Reversible
- Yes
- Energy
- Endothermic
- ΔH
- 52.0 kJ/mol
Related Reactions
Cracking of Octane (Thermal Cracking)
Decomposition of Ammonium Nitrate
Decomposition of Barium Peroxide
Decomposition of Calcium Carbonate (Calcination)
Decomposition of Calcium Hypochlorite
Decomposition of Carbonic Acid
Decomposition of Hydrogen Peroxide
Decomposition of Iron(II,III) Oxide (Direct Reduction)
Decomposition of Nitroglycerin
Decomposition of Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the equation for Thermal Decomposition of Sodium Percarbonate?
The balanced equation is: 2Na₂CO₃·3H₂O₂ → 2Na₂CO₃ + 3H₂O₂.
What type of reaction is Thermal Decomposition of Sodium Percarbonate?
Thermal Decomposition of Sodium Percarbonate is a decomposition reaction. It is reversible under certain conditions.
Is Thermal Decomposition of Sodium Percarbonate exothermic or endothermic?
Thermal Decomposition of Sodium Percarbonate is endothermic (absorbs energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is 52.0 kJ/mol.