What happens when hydrogen peroxide is exposed to sunlight?

When hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) is exposed to sunlight, it undergoes decomposition.

The reaction is:
2H₂O₂ → 2H₂O + O₂

In this process:

• Hydrogen peroxide breaks down into water (H₂O) and oxygen (O₂)
• Sunlight acts as a catalyst and speeds up the decomposition

Key observations:

• Oxygen gas is released
• The solution gradually loses its effectiveness

Due to this property, hydrogen peroxide is stored in dark-colored bottles to prevent exposure to light and slow down decomposition.