Question

Identify role of glycerol in following reaction: $2H_{2}O_{2(l)} \xrightarrow{glycerol} 2H_{2}O_{(l)} + O_{2(g)}$

• A. Homogeneous catalyst
• B. Inhibitor
• C. Promoter
• D. Heterogeneous catalyst

Hint:

Acetanilide and glycerol are common inhibitors used to stabilize $H_2O_2$.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
Hydrogen peroxide ($\text{H}_2\text{O}_2$) is unstable and decomposes naturally into water and oxygen. Certain substances are added to slow down this process.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
- A catalyst increases the rate of reaction.
- An inhibitor (or negative catalyst) decreases the rate of a chemical reaction.
- Glycerol, acetanilide, or phosphoric acid are often added to hydrogen peroxide to prevent or slow down its decomposition during storage.
- Thus, in this specific context, glycerol acts as an inhibitor to stabilize $\text{H}_2\text{O}_2$.

Step 4: Final Answer:
Glycerol acts as an inhibitor.