Louis Jacque Thenard discovered hydrogen peroxide in 1818. Hydrogen peroxide is a common compound that people use in their daily lives. It is a strong oxidizing agent and a weak acid. Hydroxide peroxide is not available in 100% concentrations, however, it is mostly found in concentrations of 3%, 10%, and 35%. Concentrations vary from 3% to 90%. The chemical formula is similar to the formula for water, however it has one more oxygen atom. Its formula is H2O2. It is also known as HO-OH, dihydrogen peroxide, Hioxy and Proxy. This compound is a molecular compound because it contains two elements that are not metals. Hydrogen peroxide has covalent bonds because, unlike ionic compounds that transfer electrons, they share their electrons to receive a full outer shell of eight electrons. There are both physical and chemical properties that can define hydrogen peroxide. Regarding physical properties, hydrogen peroxide is mainly found in a liquid state, however it can also be found in a solid and gaseous state. It has a density of 1.45 g/cm3. This means that hydrogen peroxide is slightly denser than water. It is a clear, colorless liquid. Additionally, hydrogen peroxide has a boiling point of 150.2°C, which means that when hydrogen peroxide is in liquid form it takes 150.2°C for the liquid to turn into vapor. Hydrogen peroxide has a melting point of 0.43°C. This indicates that hydrogen peroxide from solid form will turn into a liquid at the temperature of 0.43°C. It is a weak acid with an average pH of 6.2. It is almost a neutral substance as it has a pH close to 7. It is soluble in water and does not form toxic or harmful compounds when it decomposes. Hydrogen peroxide is a… paper medium… there are many steps required to treat it successfully. Long-sleeved clothing should be worn. You must wear nitrile or super nitrile gloves and wear safety glasses, goggles or a face shield. Barrier cream should be applied to hands before use. Another person should be present in the laboratory. When not in use, keep containers closed and upright. Even when not in use, containers with hydrogen peroxide should be kept away from heat sources, including sunlight and Bunsen burners. Keep combustible materials away from hydrogen peroxide. Prevent the accumulation of mists or vapors in the atmosphere. Make sure a water supply is readily available. Maintain a high level of personal hygiene when using this product by always washing your hands before eating, drinking, smoking or using the toilet. It is recommended to apply a moisturizer after washing your hands.
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