The decomposition of hydrogen peroxide is given by the following reaction:
2 H₂O₂(aq) → 2 H₂O(l) + O₂(g)
In the presence of KI the reaction is thought to occur by the following mechanism:
Step 1: H₂O₂ + I^- → H₂O + IO^-
Step 2: IO^- + H₂O₂ → H₂O + O₂ + I^-
What is the role of I^- in this mechanism?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

I^- is a catalyst because it is consumed in the first step and regenerated in the second step, facilitating the reaction without being permanently altered.

The Decomposition of Hydrogen Peroxide Is Given by the Following