What happens during the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide?

During the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, the compound breaks down into water and oxygen. This reaction is often catalyzed by a catalyst such as potassium iodide or an enzyme like catalase, which is found in living organisms. The process can be represented by the chemical equation 2 H₂O₂ → 2 H₂O + O₂. This reaction is significant in various biological processes and plays a role in the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide produced as a byproduct of metabolism. The release of oxygen gas is visible as bubbling when hydrogen peroxide is applied to a wound, for example, indicating its breakdown.

The other options describe processes that do not occur during the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide. For instance, hydrogen peroxide does not combine with carbon to form new compounds or react with light to produce energy in a way that is relevant to its decomposition. Additionally, the reaction does not involve the combination with organic matter directly; rather, its primary transformation results in simpler substances—water and oxygen.