Which molecule is known to be a strong oxidizing agent?

Prepare for the SQA Higher Chemistry Exam with multiple choice questions, flashcards, and detailed explanations for each question. Get ready to excel in your Chemistry exam!

Hydrogen peroxide is a strong oxidizing agent primarily due to its ability to readily donate oxygen and accept electrons during chemical reactions. This characteristic allows it to oxidize various substances effectively. In many reactions, hydrogen peroxide decomposes to produce water and oxygen gas, releasing energy in the process. Its strong oxidizing properties make it useful in applications such as bleaching, disinfection, and even in certain chemical synthesis methods. Other compounds listed, such as sodium chloride, carbon dioxide, and ammonia, do not exhibit significant oxidizing behavior under standard conditions, which is why they are not classified as strong oxidizing agents. Sodium chloride is a stable ionic compound, carbon dioxide is more neutral in its reactions, and ammonia acts as a reducing agent rather than an oxidizer. Thus, hydrogen peroxide's structural properties and reactivity clearly position it as a strong oxidizing agent among the choices provided.

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