Answer to Question #183466 in General Chemistry for Stanley

Question

Which of the following reactions is sulphuroxide acting as an oxidizing agent

2SO2+2H2O+O2- 2H3SO4

Answer 1

The correct equation is:

2SO₂ + 2H₂O + O₂ --> 2H₂SO₄ (not H₃SO₄)

Sulphur (IV) oxide is not acting as an oxidizing agent in this reaction. S changes its oxidation state from +4 to +6, therefore, it acts as a reducing agent. Oxidizing agent is O₂ in this case.