Question

In the reaction $2Ag+2H_{2}S{O}_4\to A{g}_{2}S{O}_4+2H_{2}O+S{O}_2$ sulphuric acid acts as

• A. An oxidizing agent
• B. A reducing agent
• C. A catalyst
• D. An acid as well as an oxidant

Answer 1

The correct option is A

An oxidizing agent

The sulphur in $H_{2}S{O}_4$ gets reduced from a +6 oxidation state to +4 in $S{O}_2$.
Also, we see that $A{g}^0$ becomes $A{g}^{+1}$.

This shows that sulphur has gained electrons and got reduced thereby oxidizing others.
So $H_{2}S{O}_4$ acts as an oxidizing agent.