Oxygen gas is commonly prepared in the laboratory by the decomposition of
Oxygen gas is commonly prepared in the laboratory by the decomposition of
Explanation
Hydrogen peroxide breaks down easily to produce oxygen gas and water. Adding a catalyst like manganese dioxide speeds up this decomposition reaction.
The equation is: 2H₂O₂ → 2H₂O + O₂. The oxygen gas bubbles off and can be collected over water or in a container.
This method is safer and easier than electrolyzing water, which requires high voltage. Hydrogen peroxide naturally decomposes, so the reaction proceeds quickly with just a catalyst.