Question

The reaction of $H_2 O_ 2$ with hydrogen sulphide is an example of ................ reaction.

• A. addition
• B. oxidation
• C. reduction
• D. acidic

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The question involves identifying the type of reaction occurring when hydrogen peroxide ($H_2O_2$) reacts with hydrogen sulphide (H₂S). Let's analyze each of the options:

1. Addition Reaction: In an addition reaction, two or more reactants combine to form a single product. However, in the reaction between $H_2O_2$ and H₂S, the reactants do not combine to form a single product, thus ruling out this option.
2. Oxidation Reaction: This involves the transfer of electrons, where one species loses electrons. In this reaction, $H_2O_2$ acts as an oxidizing agent causing oxidation of H₂S to form elemental sulfur and water:
   H_2S + H_2O_2 \rightarrow S + 2H_2O
   In this reaction, hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) is oxidized to sulfur (S), and hydrogen peroxide is reduced to water. Thus, this is an oxidation process.
3. Reduction Reaction: This involves the gain of electrons. Since $H_2O_2$ acts as the oxidizing agent, it is reduced in the reaction, but the main process being highlighted here is the oxidation of H₂S.
4. Acidic Reaction: While the presence of an acid is not necessary for defining an acidic reaction, this specific reaction is characterized by an oxidation process rather than acidity.

Given the choices and analysis, the reaction is best described as an oxidation reaction since H₂S is oxidized by $H_2O_2$.

Therefore, the correct answer is: oxidation.