peroxidesCompounds of oxygen that contain the O22- ion. Alkali metals and alkaline earth metal peroxides are formed by heating the metals or their oxides in excess air. Covalent peroxides include peracetic acid and peroxymonosulfuric acid ("Caro's acid"). They are powerful oxidizing agents, used in bleaching (see superoxides). See also hydrogen peroxide. Related category INORGANIC CHEMISTRYAlso on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History |