Question

Which of the following statements are correct for $S{O}_2$ gas?

• A. Its molecule has linear geometry.
• B. Its dilute solution is used as disinfectant.
• C. It can be prepared by the reaction of dilute $H_{2}S{O}_4$ with metal sulphide.
• D. It acts as a bleaching agent in moist conditions.

Answer 1

Answer: (B), (D)

It acts as a bleaching agent in moist conditions.

Option (A):
Moist $S{O}_2$ acts as a bleaching agent because of its reducing nature.

For example: It converts Fe (III) ions to Fe (II) ions and itself gets oxidized to $S{O}_4^{2-}$ ion.

Option (B):

The molecule of $S{O}_2$ has angular geometry because of lone pair present on sulphur atom as per VSEPR theory.


Therefore, the statement in 'B' option is wrong stating that $S{O}_2$ has linear geometry.

Option (C):

$S{O}_2$ is used as an disinfectant, preservative, bleaching wool etc. $\text{(}usesofS{O}_{2}gas)$

Option (D):

$S{O}_2$ cannot be prepared by action of dil. $H_{2}S{O}_4$ on metal sulphide because the reaction will produce $H_{2}S$ and not $S{O}_2$ gas.
Therefore, option D is an incorrect statement.

Hence, (A) and (C) are the correct options.