Question:

The bleaching of cotton fibres is carried out by __________ bleaching agent.

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Sodium hydroxide (Option 1) is used for scouring and mercerization, but it is NOT a bleaching agent; it cleans but doesn't whiten pigments.
Updated On: May 26, 2026
  • Sodium hydroxide
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Potassium chloride
  • Sodium chloride
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Concept: Natural cotton has a yellowish tint due to natural pigments. Bleaching is the chemical process used to destroy these pigments to achieve a pure white base, which is necessary for white goods or for dyeing pastel shades.

Step 1:
Selecting the Bleaching Agent.
While several chemicals can bleach textiles, the industry has shifted toward oxygen-based bleaches because they are more environmentally friendly than chlorine-based ones.

Step 2:
The Role of Hydrogen Peroxide.
Hydrogen peroxide ($H_2O_2$) is the most widely used bleaching agent for cotton. Under alkaline conditions (usually provided by sodium hydroxide) and at high temperatures, it releases perhydroxyl ions that chemically break down the natural coloring matter without significantly degrading the cellulose fibers.
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