peroksüide

Peroksüide is the Estonian term for peroxides. Peroxides are chemical compounds containing a peroxide functional group, which consists of a single oxygen-oxygen single bond (O-O). This bond is relatively weak, making peroxides often reactive and unstable. The general formula for peroxides is R-O-O-R', where R and R' can be hydrogen atoms or various organic or inorganic groups.

The simplest peroxide is hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a widely used disinfectant and bleaching agent. Many inorganic peroxides, such as sodium peroxide (Na2O2) and barium peroxide (BaO2), are strong oxidizing agents. Organic peroxides, characterized by the presence of the -O-O- linkage within an organic molecule, are often used as initiators in polymerization reactions or as curing agents for resins.

Due to their inherent instability, peroxides can decompose, sometimes explosively, especially when exposed to heat, shock, or contamination. This reactivity also makes them valuable in various industrial and domestic applications. However, their handling requires caution due to their potential hazards. The term "peroksüide" in Estonian directly translates to this class of compounds and their associated chemical properties and uses.