Everyday chemistry (bleaching): Identify the most commonly used bleaching agent in household/industrial applications. Consider agents historically and currently used for decolorizing and disinfecting. Choose the correct option.
IIT JEE
Chemistry
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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AChlorine (Cl₂)
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BSulfur dioxide (SO₂)
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CHydrogen sulfide (H₂S)
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DOzone (O₃)
Answer
Correct Answer: Chlorine (Cl₂)
Explanation
ConceptBleaching is commonly effected by strong oxidizers. Historically and widely, chlorine (and its compounds like bleaching powder/sodium hypochlorite) has been the most commonly used bleaching agent for textiles and water disinfection.
Why not others?
- SO₂ is a reducing agent used in specific food/textile contexts, not the most common overall.
- H₂S is malodorous/toxic and not a bleaching agent.
- O₃ is a potent oxidizer but specialized and less common than chlorine systems.
Final AnswerChlorine (Cl₂)