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Which of the following equations shows sulfuric acid acting as an oxidizing agent?

1. NaCl + H2SO4 → NaHSO4 + HCl
2. 2PCl5 + H2SO4 → 2POCl3 + 2HCl + SO2Cl2
3. 2HI + H2SO4 → I2 + SO2 + 2H2O
4. Ca(OH)2 + H2SO4 → CaSO4 + 2H2O

Correct answer: 2HI + H2SO4 → I2 + SO2 + 2H2O

Solution

In the reaction 2HI + H2SO4 → I2 + SO2 + 2H2O, sulfuric acid acts as an oxidizing agent because it facilitates the oxidation of iodide ions (I-) to iodine (I2), while itself being reduced to sulfur dioxide (SO2). This demonstrates its ability to accept electrons, characteristic of oxidizing agents.

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