Question

Hydrogen peroxide, in its reaction with $KI{O}_4$ and $N{H}_{2}OH$ respectively is acting as:

• A. a reducing agent, an oxidizing agent
• B. a reducing agent, a reducing agent
• C. an oxidizing agent, an oxidizing agent
• D. an oxidizing agent, a reducing agent

Answer 1

The correct option is A

a reducing agent, an oxidizing agent

Let us look at the reactions one at a time:

$KI{O}_4+H_2{O}_2⟶KI{O}_3+H_{2}O+O_2$

In this reaction, the oxidation state of Iodine changes from (+7) to (+5), which means that $KI{O}_4$ has gained electrons whereas $H_2{O}_2$ has gained electrons. Thus hydrogen peroxide acts as a reducig agent in this reaction.

$N{H}_{2}OH+H_2{O}_2⟶N_2{O}_3+H_{2}O$

In this reaction, oxidation state of nitrogen increases from (-1) to (+3), which means that $N{H}_{2}OH$ has lost 4$e^{-}$and $H_2{O}_2$ has gained electrons. Thus hydrogen peroxide acts as an oxidising agent in this reaction.