Question

What is an example of a disproportionation reaction?

Answer 1

The disproportionation of hydrogen peroxide to give oxygen and water would be a good example.

Explanation:

`"The formal oxidation number"` of oxygen in `"hydrogen peroxide"` is `O^(-I)`. `H_2O_2` disproportionates to oxygen and water under acidic conditions:

`"Oxidation:"`

`H_2O_2 rarr 2H^(+) + O_2 +2e^(-)`

`"Reduction:"`

`H_2O_2 + 2H^(+) + 2e^(-) rarr 2H_2O(l)`

`"Overall:"`

`2H_2O_2(l) + rarr 2H_2O(l) + O_2(g)`

OR

`H_2O_2(l) + rarr H_2O(l) + 1/2O_2(g)`

Univalent oxygen in hydrogen peroxide is reduced to water, and oxidized to dioxygen gas.