Here's why:
* Hydrogen peroxide is a strong oxidizer: It can break down into water (H2O) and oxygen (O2).
* Silica is a relatively stable compound: It doesn't readily react with many substances.
* In the presence of hydrogen peroxide, silica can undergo a slow oxidation reaction: This reaction involves the transfer of oxygen atoms from hydrogen peroxide to silica. The exact products of this reaction are complex and depend on factors like concentration and temperature.
The reaction between silica and hydrogen peroxide is not a violent or explosive reaction. It's usually a slow process that might lead to the formation of some silicic acid (H4SiO4) and oxygen gas. This process is often used in cleaning applications, particularly for removing organic stains from silica surfaces.
In essence, sand itself doesn't react with hydrogen peroxide, but the silica within sand can undergo a slow oxidation reaction in the presence of hydrogen peroxide.