Question:

What happens when an acidic solution of the green compound (B) is allowed to stand for some time ? Also write the equation involved. What is this type of reaction called ?

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A disproportionation reaction is one in which the same element undergoes oxidation and reduction simultaneously.
Updated On: Jun 29, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

Concept: The green compound identified above is potassium manganate: [ K_2MnO_4 ] In manganate ion, [ MnO_4^2- ] manganese exists in the (+6) oxidation state. This oxidation state is unstable in acidic medium. As a result, manganate undergoes simultaneous oxidation and reduction.

Step 1: Behaviour in acidic medium When an acidic solution of potassium manganate is allowed to stand, the green colour gradually disappears and a purple solution of potassium permanganate is formed along with manganese dioxide. This occurs because manganese in oxidation state (+6) undergoes both oxidation and reduction simultaneously.

Step 2: Chemical equation [ 3MnO_4^2- +4H^+ 2MnO_4^- +MnO_2 +2H_2O ]

Step 3: Nature of the reaction In the above reaction:

• One portion of manganese is oxidized from (+6) to (+7).

• Another portion is reduced from (+6) to (+4).
Since the same species undergoes oxidation as well as reduction simultaneously, the reaction is called a disproportionation reaction.

Final Answer [ 3MnO_4^2-+4H^+ 2MnO_4^-+MnO_2+2H_2O ] [ This reaction is called a disproportionation reaction. ]
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