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Q. The compound that cannot act both as oxidising and reducing agent is:

(A). H2SO3

(B). HNO2

(C). H3PO4

(D). H2O2

 

Ans. (C)

Explanation:

If an element is in its highest possible oxidation state in a compound, it behaves as oxidizing agent only.

If an element is in its lowest possible oxidation state in a compound, it behaves as reducing agent only.

If an element oxidation state is between its maximum and minimum possible oxidation states, it acts like both an oxidizing and reducing agent.

In H3PO4, P is in +5 oxidation state and hence can act like a strong oxidising agent. In the rest, the oxidation state is between their maximum and minimum.