Peroksides

Peroxides are a class of chemical compounds that contain a single oxygen-oxygen single bond. This O-O bond is relatively weak, making peroxides reactive. The simplest peroxide is hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Organic peroxides have a structure where the peroxide linkage is bonded to carbon atoms. These compounds are often used as oxidizing agents, bleaching agents, and catalysts. Due to their instability, many peroxides can decompose, sometimes explosively, releasing oxygen gas and heat. This reactivity necessitates careful handling and storage. Common applications include disinfectants, rocket propellants, and initiators for polymerization reactions. The term "peroxide" can also refer to the peroxide ion (O2^2-), which is a diatomic ion with a charge of -2. This ion is found in various inorganic salts.