What is the Difference Between H2O and H2O2?

The main difference between water (H2O) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) lies in their chemical composition and properties. Here are the key differences:

1. Composition: Water is composed of 2 hydrogen atoms and 1 oxygen atom, while hydrogen peroxide has 2 hydrogen atoms and 2 oxygen atoms.
2. Oxidation State: In water, the oxygen atom has a -2 oxidation state, whereas in hydrogen peroxide, each oxygen atom has a -1 oxidation state.
3. Boiling Point: Hydrogen peroxide has a higher boiling point than water.
4. Chemical Properties: Hydrogen peroxide is a strong oxidizing and reducing agent, while water is a good solvent. Hydrogen peroxide can cause fizzing reactions with certain substances, such as bacteria, while water does not.
5. Acidity: H2O2 gives off 2 hydrogen ions in an aqueous solution, while water gives off only 1 hydrogen ion.

In summary, water and hydrogen peroxide are made of the same elements, hydrogen and oxygen, but they have different compositions and properties. Water is a fundamental molecule for life, while hydrogen peroxide is known for its strong oxidizing and reducing properties.

Comparative Table: H2O vs H2O2

Here is a table comparing the differences between water (H2O) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2):

Water (H2O) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) are both clear liquids made of hydrogen and oxygen atoms. The main difference between them is the number of oxygen atoms in their molecules: water has one oxygen atom, while hydrogen peroxide has two oxygen atoms. This difference in the number of oxygen atoms results in hydrogen peroxide having a slightly sharp or pungent odor, unlike the odorless water.