Cosider the reactions
(i) `H_(2)O_(2) + 2HI to I_(2) + 2H_(2)O`
(ii) `HOCl + H_(2)O_(2) to H_(3)O^(+) + Cl^(-) + O_(2)`
Which of the following statements is correct about `H_(2)O_(2)` with reference to these reactions ? Hydrogen peroxide is ………

Options

A. an oxidising agent in both (A) and (B)
B. an oxidising agent in (A) and reducing agent in (B)
C. a reducing agent in (A) and oxidising agent in (B)
D. a reducing agent in both (A) and (B)

Answer

B

Explanation

(A) `H_(2)O_(2)+2H overset(-1)(I)to overset(0)(I_(2))+2H_(2)O`
Iodine is oxidised from -1 to 0 oxidation state thus, `H_(2)O_(2)` acts as an oxidising agent and itself gets reduced.
(B) `HO overset((+1))(Cl)+H_(2)O_(2)to H_(2)O^(+)+Cl^(-)+O_(2)`
Chlorine is reduced from +1 to -1 oxidation state thus, `H_(2)O_(2)` acts as a reducing agent and itself gets oxidised.