Why is hydrogen peroxide stored in wax lined bottles?

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Understanding Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2):** Hydrogen peroxide is a chemical compound that can decompose into water (H2O) and oxygen (O2) under certain conditions. This decomposition can be accelerated by various factors.

2. **Decomposition Triggers:** One of the primary triggers for the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide is the presence of alkali metal oxides. These oxides can be found in glass containers, which can lead to the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen.

3. **Glass Bottles and Alkali Metal Oxides:** Glass bottles often contain traces of alkali metal oxides. When hydrogen peroxide is stored in these bottles, the alkali metal oxides can catalyze the decomposition reaction, causing the hydrogen peroxide to break down more rapidly than desired.

4. **Effect of Light:** In addition to alkali metal oxides, exposure to light (especially UV light) can also trigger the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide. This means that transparent glass bottles are not suitable for storing hydrogen peroxide as they allow light to penetrate and contribute to the decomposition process.

5. **Alternative Storage Solutions:** To prevent the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, it is stored in wax-lined bottles or containers made from materials like Teflon or coated plastic. These materials do not contain alkali metal oxides, and they also provide a barrier against light, thereby minimizing the risk of decomposition.

6. **Conclusion:** Therefore, hydrogen peroxide is stored in wax-lined bottles or Teflon bottles to prevent its decomposition caused by alkali metal oxides present in glass and the effects of light.

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