Fenton reaction

The Fenton reaction is the iron-catalyzed conversion of hydrogen peroxide into highly reactive hydroxyl radicals. Its rate and products depend on iron’s oxidation state and the surrounding chemistry.

Iron redox cycle: A sequence of reactions in which iron alternates between oxidation states, commonly Fe(II) and Fe(III). Fe(II) is oxidized as it transfers an electron to hydrogen peroxide.
Advanced oxidation process: A water-treatment method that generates highly reactive species to oxidize contaminants. Fenton chemistry is one route for producing oxidants that break down persistent pollutants.
H. J. H. Fenton: An English chemist who studied the oxidation of organic compounds by hydrogen peroxide and iron salts. His 1894 report gave the named reaction its place in chemical history.
Iron(II): The +2 oxidation state of iron, also called ferrous iron. Ferrous iron commonly initiates the classical reaction by reducing hydrogen peroxide.
Catalase: An enzyme that converts hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. It removes peroxide without relying on iron-driven hydroxyl-radical production.
Hydroxyl radical: A highly reactive radical consisting of one oxygen atom and one hydrogen atom. This short-lived oxidant is the defining product of the classical reaction.
Fenton process: A wastewater-treatment process that uses iron salts and hydrogen peroxide to oxidize organic pollutants. It applies the reaction directly to contaminant removal and wastewater treatment.
Oxalic acid: A simple dicarboxylic acid with formula C₂H₂O₄, found in plants and used in chemical synthesis. Fenton first reported iron- and peroxide-driven oxidation using this compound.
Iron(III): The +3 oxidation state of iron, also called ferric iron. Ferric iron is produced in the initiating step and can re-enter the catalytic cycle.
Fenton-like reaction: A peroxide-activation reaction resembling the Fenton reaction but using other metals or oxidants. Its related chemistry differs in catalysts and can produce different reactive intermediates.

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