Inorganic peroxides may __________ without air.

Inorganic peroxides may __________ without air.

• A. React
• B. Corrode
• C. Explode
• D. Absorb

Answer: (C)

Inorganic peroxides are energetic oxidizers that store a lot of chemical energy in their O–O bonds. When they decompose, they release heat and oxygen along with gaseous products. If they’re heated, shocked, or confined, the decomposition can accelerate, building up pressure and leading to a violent, rapid release of energy—a explosion. The peroxide itself supplies the oxygen needed for the reaction, so atmospheric air isn’t required for the explosion to occur. This is why explosion is the best description of the hazard here. They don’t simply absorb, corrode, or casually react in this context; the defining risk is explosive decomposition.

Inorganic peroxides are energetic oxidizers that store a lot of chemical energy in their O–O bonds. When they decompose, they release heat and oxygen along with gaseous products. If they’re heated, shocked, or confined, the decomposition can accelerate, building up pressure and leading to a violent, rapid release of energy—a explosion. The peroxide itself supplies the oxygen needed for the reaction, so atmospheric air isn’t required for the explosion to occur. This is why explosion is the best description of the hazard here. They don’t simply absorb, corrode, or casually react in this context; the defining risk is explosive decomposition.