Question:medium

In which of the following reactions of H$_2$O$_2$ acts as an oxidizing agent (either in acidic, alkaline, or neutral medium)? 
(i) \( 2Fe^{2+} + H_2O_2 \rightarrow \) 
(ii) \( 2MnO_4^- + 6H^+ + 5H_2O_2 \rightarrow \) 
(iii) \( I_2 + H_2O_2 + 2OH^- \rightarrow \) 
(iv) \( Mn^{2+} + H_2O_2 \rightarrow \) 
 

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Hydrogen peroxide (\( H_2O_2 \)) is a versatile redox agent that can act as either an oxidizing or reducing agent, depending on the reaction medium.
Updated On: Nov 26, 2025
  • (ii), (iii)
  • (i), (iv)
  • (i), (iii)
  • (ii), (iv)
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: H$_2$O$_2$'s Oxidizing Agent Role
Hydrogen peroxide (\( H_2O_2 \)) functions as both an oxidizing and reducing agent based on reaction conditions. 
It typically acts as an oxidizing agent in acidic and neutral environments. 
In alkaline solutions, it can function as either an oxidizing or reducing agent. 
Step 2: Reaction Completion 
\[ (i) \quad 2Fe^{2+} + H_2O_2 \rightarrow 2Fe^{3+} + 2OH^- \] \( H_2O_2 \) oxidizes \( Fe^{2+} \) to \( Fe^{3+} \), acting as an oxidizing agent. 
\[ (ii) \quad 2MnO_4^- + 6H^+ + 5H_2O_2 \rightarrow 2Mn^{2+} + 5O_2 + 8H_2O \] \( H_2O_2 \) is oxidized to \( O_2 \), functioning as a reducing agent. 
\[ (iii) \quad I_2 + H_2O_2 + 2OH^- \rightarrow 2I^- + O_2 + 2H_2O \] \( H_2O_2 \) reduces iodine (\( I_2 \)) to iodide (\( I^- \)), acting as a reducing agent. 
\[ (iv) \quad Mn^{2+} + H_2O_2 \rightarrow MnO_2 + 2H^+ \] \( H_2O_2 \) oxidizes \( Mn^{2+} \) to \( MnO_2 \), functioning as an oxidizing agent. 
Step 3: Correct Answer Identification 
\( H_2O_2 \) acts as an oxidizing agent in reactions (i) and (iv). 
 

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