Which of the following statements are correct for `SO_(2)` gas?
(a) It acts as bleaching agent in moist conditions.
(b) Its molecule has linear geometry.
(c ) Its dilute solution is used as disinfectant.
(d) It can be prepared by the reaction of dilute `H_(2)SO_(4)` with metal sulphide.

Explanation

To determine which statements about \( SO_2 \) gas are correct, let's analyze each statement step by step.

### Step 1: Analyze Statement (a)
**Statement:** It acts as a bleaching agent in moist conditions.

**Explanation:** Sulfur dioxide (\( SO_2 \)) can act as a bleaching agent, especially in the presence of moisture. This is because it can reduce colored substances by removing oxygen, leading to a temporary bleaching effect. Therefore, this statement is **correct**.

### Step 2: Analyze Statement (b)
**Statement:** Its molecule has linear geometry.

**Explanation:** The molecular geometry of \( SO_2 \) is not linear. Sulfur (\( S \)) has six valence electrons and forms two double bonds with two oxygen atoms. The presence of a lone pair on the sulfur atom causes the molecule to adopt a bent shape rather than a linear one. Thus, this statement is **incorrect**.

### Step 3: Analyze Statement (c)
**Statement:** Its dilute solution is used as a disinfectant.

**Explanation:** A dilute solution of \( SO_2 \) has disinfectant properties. It can kill bacteria and other pathogens, making it useful in various applications, including food preservation. Therefore, this statement is **correct**.

### Step 4: Analyze Statement (d)
**Statement:** It can be prepared by the reaction of dilute \( H_2SO_4 \) with metal sulfide.

**Explanation:** When metal sulfides react with dilute sulfuric acid (\( H_2SO_4 \)), they typically produce hydrogen sulfide (\( H_2S \)), not sulfur dioxide (\( SO_2 \)). Therefore, this statement is **incorrect**.

### Conclusion
Based on the analysis:
- Statement (a) is **correct**.
- Statement (b) is **incorrect**.
- Statement (c) is **correct**.
- Statement (d) is **incorrect**.

Thus, the correct statements for \( SO_2 \) gas are (a) and (c).