Question

Identify the number of electrons lost by H₂O₂ when it is oxidised to O₂ according to following reaction.

$H_2O_{2(aq)} + ClO_{4(aq)} \longrightarrow ClO_{2(aq)}^- + O_{2(g)}$

• A. 2 electrons
• B. 1 electron
• C. 4 electrons
• D. No loss of electron

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Option (A) 2 electrons

Answer 2

In $H_2O_2$, oxygen has an oxidation state of $-1$. In $O_2$, oxygen has an oxidation state of $0$. Thus, each oxygen atom loses 1 electron. Since there are 2 oxygen atoms in $H_2O_2$, a total of $2$ electrons are lost.