Question

H₂O₂ can act both as oxidizing as well as reducing agent. Why?

Answer 1

Let, oxidation number of O = x

\(\therefore\) 2(1) + 2(x) = 0

2 + 2x = 0

2x = -2

x = \(\frac{-2}{2}\) = -1

\(\therefore\) Oxidation no. of O in H₂O₂ = –1

However, the oxidation number of O can vary from 0 to – 2 in other species. So, the oxidation number of O can decrease or increase, due to this reason, H₂O₂ can act both as oxidizing as well as reducing agent.