The decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, H2O2, to gaseous O2 and water is a spontaneous process, yet 3% H2O2 can be stored for long periods of time without significant decomposition.  Which of the following statements could explain this fact?   Select one: a. A spontaneous process by definition can occur, but does not necessarily have to occur. b. There is not a good pathway for this reaction to occur under the given conditions. c. There is an activation energy which must be overcome for this reaction to occur and at room temperature thermal energy is not sufficient to overcome this activation energy. d. All of these are possible answers.

General Chemistry - Standalone book (MindTap Course List)
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ISBN:9781305580343
Author:Steven D. Gammon, Ebbing, Darrell Ebbing, Steven D., Darrell; Gammon, Darrell Ebbing; Steven D. Gammon, Darrell D.; Gammon, Ebbing; Steven D. Gammon; Darrell
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Chapter18: Thermodynamics And Equilibrium
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 18.121QP
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The decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, H2O2, to gaseous O2 and water is a spontaneous process, yet 3% H2O2 can be stored for long periods of time without significant decomposition.  Which of the following statements could explain this fact?

 

Select one:
a. A spontaneous process by definition can occur, but does not necessarily have to occur.
b. There is not a good pathway for this reaction to occur under the given conditions.
c. There is an activation energy which must be overcome for this reaction to occur and at room temperature thermal energy is not sufficient to overcome this activation energy.
d. All of these are possible answers.
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