Question

Which represents the overall (net) reaction of this mechanism: step 1: H2O2 + I- → H2O + OI- step 2: H2O2 + OI- → H2O + O2 + I- Note that I- acts as a catalyst in this reaction.

A. 2H2O2 → 2H2O + O2

B. H2O2 → H2 + O2

C. H2O2 + I- → OI- + H2O

D. H2O2 + OI- → H2O + O2 + I-

Answer 1

A. 2H₂O₂ → 2H₂O + O₂

Step-by-step explanation:

• 1. H₂O₂ + I⁻ → H₂O + OI⁻

• 2. H₂O₂ + OI⁻ → H₂O + O₂ + I⁻

If we make a net sum of both reactions, we're left with:

• H₂O₂ + I⁻ + H₂O₂ + OI⁻ → H₂O + OI⁻ + H₂O + O₂ + I⁻

Grouping species:

• 2H₂O₂ + OI⁻ + I⁻ → 2H₂O + OI⁻ + O₂ + I⁻

There is OI⁻ at both sides, so it is eliminated -same goes for the catalyst, I⁻-.

• 2H₂O₂ → 2H₂O + O₂

Thus the answer is option A.