The label ‘3%’ on a bottle of hydrogen peroxide indicates the concentration of the solution. In this case, it means that 3% of the solution is made up of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), while the remaining 97% consists of other components. Typically, this 97% is made up of water, which serves as a solvent to dilute the hydrogen peroxide to a concentration that is safe and effective for various uses.
Hydrogen peroxide at higher concentrations can be corrosive and is usually used in industrial applications or for specific purposes that can handle the more potent solution. The 3% concentration is commonly used in households for cleaning, disinfecting, and first aid, as it minimizes the risk of harm while still providing antimicrobial benefits.