Concept:Catalysts speed up reactions, while inhibitors (negative catalysts) specifically bind to reactive intermediates to slow down or completely halt a decomposition reaction.
Formula:$$ 2H_2O_2 \rightarrow 2H_2O + O_2 \quad \text{(spontaneous but inhibitable)} $$
Solution:- Hydrogen peroxide (\( H_2O_2 \)) slowly decomposes into water and oxygen gas upon exposure to light or ambient heat.
- To prevent this during commercial storage, specific stabilizing chemicals are added.
- Glycerin (glycerol) forms strong hydrogen bonds with the peroxide and acts as a highly effective inhibitor, slowing the decomposition rate drastically.
Why other options are incorrect:\( MnO_2 \) is a famous
positive catalyst that rapidly accelerates peroxide decomposition. \( V_2O_5 \) is a catalyst used in the Contact Process for sulfuric acid.
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