difference between the bleaching action of SO2 and CL2

sinjan.j

SO2 and Cl2 are both bleaching agents. but hoe do they differ based on the bleaching action?

plz help!@!!

symbolipoint

A quick guess, not necessarily the most correct guess, is that they differ by their oxidation potentials. They may also differ by identity of resulting reduced products. Sulfur compounds may or may not be advantageous or troublesome as products.

sinjan.j

thank you for this

chemisttree

Actually, SO2 is a reducing agent. When it reacts with water, it produces sulfonic acid, H2SO3. The anion of this acid is sulfite and bisulfite. These are added to foods to block the action of oxidation from atmospheric oxygen.

Hint: Look up the Kraft sulfite bleaching process.

sinjan.j

thanx for tjhis

keskarkunal

Similarities -The one thing common between their bleaching action is both of them requires
Moisture for bleaching action.
Differences -
The bleaching action by chlorine is based on Oxidation means it requires nascent oxygen for
Bleaching action. While sulphur dioxide bleaching is based upon the reduction (Use of the
nascent hydrogen)
Another difference is the bleaching action of sulphur dioxide is temporary while bleaching
Action of chlorine is permanent.
Basically bleaching action by chlorine is strong-Used for bleaching cotton, jute,It also
Damages delicate fibres by vigorous reaction.
While SO2 is Mild bleaching agent..Used to bleach delicate fibres like silk,wool..Does not
damage fabric as its not strong.