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  Home > JCE Print > Journal of Chemical Education > Issues > 1999  > November  >
In the Laboratory
The Enthalpy of Decomposition of Hydrogen Peroxide: A General Chemistry Calorimetry Experiment
Charles J. Marzzacco
Rhode Island College, Department of Physical Sciences, Providence, RI 02908-1991
Cover
November 1999
Vol. 76 No. 11
p. 1517
Abstract
A calorimetry experiment involving the catalytic decomposition of aqueous hydrogen peroxide is presented. The experiment is simple, inexpensive, and colorful. In its simplest form, it can be performed in less than one hour; therefore, it is quite suitable for high school labs, which often have time restrictions. The chemicals required are household or commercial 3% H2O2(aq) and 0.50 M Fe(NO3)3(aq). Styrofoam cup calorimeters and thermometers with a range from 20 to 50 oC are also required. Ideally, the thermometers should be precise to 0.01 oC. The temperature of the H2O2 solution is monitored before and after the Fe(NO3)3 catalyst is added. The addition of the catalyst results in a color change and the evolution of heat and bubbles of oxygen. At the conclusion of the reaction, the color of the reaction mixture returns to that of the original Fe(NO3)3 solution. The heat change for the reaction is determined from the temperature change, the specific heat of the solution, and the calorimeter constant. The experimental enthalpy change for the reaction is in excellent agreement with the literature value.
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*  Citation
 Marzzacco, Charles J. J. Chem. Educ. 1999 76 1517.
*  Keywords
 Introductory / High School Chemistry; Calorimetry; Catalysis
*  History
 Created:
Last Updated:		 October 12, 1999
November 22, 2005
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