Question

hydrogen peroxide ($h_2o_2$) can be used to disinfect and clean surfaces around the home. it breaks down over time into oxygen gas ($o_2$) and water ($h_2o$). which model accurately represents this reaction?

Explanation:

Step1: Write balanced reaction equation

The decomposition of hydrogen peroxide:

$$2\text{H}_2\text{O}_2 ightarrow 2\text{H}_2\text{O} + \text{O}_2$$

Step2: Match to molecular model

Count reactant/product molecules: 2 $\text{H}_2\text{O}_2$ (2 H, 2 O each) → 2 $\text{H}_2\text{O}$ (2 H, 1 O each) + 1 $\text{O}_2$ (2 O). The second model (left-to-right, second panel) has 2 $\text{H}_2\text{O}_2$ molecules reacting to form 2 $\text{H}_2\text{O}$ and 1 $\text{O}_2$.

Answer:

The second model (from left: two $\text{H}_2\text{O}_2$ molecules reacting to produce one $\text{O}_2$ molecule and two $\text{H}_2\text{O}$ molecules)