Question:

Which one of the following cannot function as an oxidising agent?

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A species can act as an oxidising agent only if its element can decrease its oxidation number.
Updated On: Nov 4, 2026
  • \(\mathrm{I^-}\)
  • \(\mathrm{S(s)}\)
  • \(\mathrm{NO_3^-(aq)}\)
  • \(\mathrm{Cr_2O_7^{2-}}\)
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

An oxidising agent gets reduced, so its central atom must be able to go to a lower oxidation state.
\(\mathrm{I^-}\): iodine is already at its lowest oxidation state (\(-1\)); it can only be oxidised, so it acts only as a reducing agent.
S(s): oxidation state 0, can go down to \(-2\) (e.g. with H2), so it can oxidise.
\(\mathrm{NO_3^-}\): N is +5, can be reduced to NO, NO2 etc.
\(\mathrm{Cr_2O_7^{2-}}\): Cr is +6, reduced to \(\mathrm{Cr^{3+}}\).
Answer: (1) \(\mathrm{I^-}\)
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