Question

Breakdown of hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen is an example of ______________

(a) combination

(b) decomposition

(c) disproportionation

(d) double decomposition

The question was posed to me in an international level competition.

My question is based upon Redox Reactions and Electrode Processes topic in division Redox Reactions of Chemistry – Class 11

Answer 1

The correct answer is (c) disproportionation

The best I can explain: Disproportionation reactions are a special type of redox reactions. In this type of redox reactions, a single compound undergoes oxidation and reduction at the same time. The breakdown of hydrogen peroxide into water and hydrogen, the same thing happens.