2. What Are The Common Uses Of Sodium Peroxide In Industries Or Laboratories?
Sodium peroxide (Na2O2) is commonly used in industries and laboratories for a variety of purposes. It is a powerful oxidizing agent, meaning that it can easily donate oxygen atoms to other substances.
In the laboratory, sodium peroxide is used as a drying agent for solvents and gases. It reacts with water and carbon dioxide to form sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and oxygen gas (O2), effectively removing any moisture or impurities from the substance being dried.
In the chemical industry, sodium peroxide is used in the production of organic chemicals such as dyes and pharmaceuticals. It is also used in the manufacture of pulp and paper, as well as in the production of specialty glasses and ceramics.
Sodium peroxide is also used in the textile industry to bleach fabrics and remove stains. It is particularly effective at removing stubborn stains such as coffee and tea.
However, sodium peroxide is a highly reactive and potentially dangerous substance. It can react violently with water and many other chemicals, releasing large amounts of heat and oxygen gas. Therefore, it must be handled with extreme care by trained professionals using appropriate safety precautions.