[ernest1039401]

Hi, for my coursework, I'm investigating the difference in activation energy of the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide with manganese dioxide catalyst and potassium iodide catalyst. I was wondering, is there any scientific theory behind why manganese dioxide is a more effective catalyst?

Thanks in advance!

[Babcock_Hall]

What are your initial thoughts?

[ernest1039401]

I think it might have to do with the variance in oxidation states - the more variance, the more effective catalyst. But my research has led me nowhere, and I don't have a definitive answer.

[Babcock_Hall]

My suspicion is that you are correct, but without a mechanism for decomposition, it is difficult to be certain.  It might also have something to do with the ability of the lone pairs of electrons on oxygen to coordinate with the manganese ion in some way.