Q. SO_{2} acts as temporary bleaching agent but Cl_{2} acts as permanent bleaching agent. why?
A) Cl_{2} bleaches due to reduction but SO_{2} due oxidation
B) Cl_{2} bleaches due to oxidation but SO_{2} due to reduction.
C) Both of the above
D) None of the above
Explanation
(b)
Cl_{2} acts as permanent bleaching agent because its bleaching action is due to oxidation
Cl_{2}+H_{2}O⟶2HCl+[O]
Organic colouring matter +[O]⟶colourless matter.
While SO_{2} acts as temporary bleaching agent because its bleaching action is due to reduction.
SO_{2}+2H_{2}O⟶H_{2}SO_{4}+2[H]
Colouring matter +2[H] ⟶colourless matter.
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.