Question

The strong reducing bahaviour of $H_{3}P{O}_2$ is due to:

• A. High oxidation state of phosphorus
• B. Presence of two $-OH$ groups and one $P-H$ bond
• C. Presence of one $-OH$ group and two $P-H$ bonds
• D. High electron gain enthalpy of phosphorus

Answer 1

The correct option is C Presence of one $-OH$ group and two $P-H$ bonds

Strong reducing behaviour of $H_{3}P{O}_2$ is attributed to the presence of two $P-H$ bonds, and hence can act as a reductant.