Question on the concentration of Hydrogen Peroxide?

[marcilevine]

I am helping my son with the project he has choosen to do which is the effect of Hydrogen Peroxide on the Rooting of Plant Cuttings and Seed Germination. The experiment calls for various dilutions of H202 in water. What is not clear is whether or not the 3% Hydrogen Peroxide you purchase at the drug store is the appropriate material to start with. Has anyone done this experiment and used something other then 3% Hydorgen Peroxide?

[James]

Hi Marcilevine,

I have never done this experiment. However, I can tell you that you can get higher concentrations of hydrogen peroxide from chemical retailers (up to 30+%). Having said that, it's probably best to stick with the store bought stuff as the higher concentration can be quite harmful if not handled properly.

When doing the experiment, I would suggest that you dilute the H2O2 in low light as the compound (hydrogen peroxide) degrades rapidly when exposed to air/light.

I am not sure what time limitations you have for this project; however, if you are unable to achieve meaningful results with the store bought hydrogen peroxide, perhaps you should look at other retailers that sell the more concentrated stuff then.

I hope that helps.