Search SchoolNGR

Thursday, 09 April 2026
Register . Login

In which of the following reactions is sulphur dioxide acting as an oxidizing agent?

In which of the following reactions is sulphur dioxide acting as an oxidizing agent?
Take Free Practice Test On 2026 JAMB UTME, Post UTME, WAEC SSCE, GCE, NECO SSCE
  • A SO 2 + 2HNO3 →H2SO4 + NO2 + Heat
  • B 2SO2 + 2H2O + O2→ 2H2SO4
  • C SO2 + 2H2O + CI2→ H2SO4 + 2HCI
  • D SO2 + 2H2S → 3S + 2H2O
  • E SO2 + H2O → H2SO3
Correct Answer: Option D
Explanation:
In reaction D, sulfur dioxide (SOâ‚‚) is acting as an oxidizing agent. Here's why:

Reaction D: SOâ‚‚ + 2Hâ‚‚S → 3S + 2Hâ‚‚O

In this reaction, sulfur dioxide (SOâ‚‚) is being reduced, while hydrogen sulfide (Hâ‚‚S) is oxidized. Specifically, SOâ‚‚ gains electrons (reduction) and is transformed into elemental sulfur (S), while Hâ‚‚S loses electrons (oxidation) and is converted into water (Hâ‚‚O).

Thus, SOâ‚‚ acts as an oxidizing agent because it accepts electrons from Hâ‚‚S, facilitating the oxidation of Hâ‚‚S.

Share question on: