peroxide

peroxide (purok'sīd) [key], chemical compound containing two oxygen atoms, each of which is bonded to the other and to a radical or some element other than oxygen; e.g., in hydrogen peroxide, H₂O₂, the atoms are joined together in the chainlike structure H-O-O-H. Peroxides are powerful oxidizing agents. They are unstable, releasing oxygen when heated. Peroxides may be formed directly by reaction of an element or compound with oxygen. In dry, carbon-dioxide-free air, sodium or barium metal reacts to form its peroxide. In moist air, zinc metal is oxidized and hydrogen peroxide is formed. When a metal peroxide is treated with a dilute acid, a solution of hydrogen peroxide and a metal salt is formed. Ethers can react with oxygen from the air to form peroxides. This creates a special hazard, since the peroxides are often so unstable that they decompose explosively if heated.

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2007, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

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