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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Bleaching Action of SO2 and Cl2?

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The main difference between the bleaching action of SO2 and Cl2 lies in the chemical reactions involved in the process.

  • SO2 Bleaching: The bleaching action of SO2 is a reduction chemical reaction. It removes oxygen gas from the colored component, causing the removal of color. However, the oxygen from the atmosphere slowly replaces the removed oxygen, causing the regain of the color. This makes the bleaching action of SO2 temporary.
  • Cl2 Bleaching: The bleaching action of Cl2 is an oxidation chemical reaction. It proceeds through an oxidation process, which is more permanent than the reduction process involved in SO2 bleaching. Chlorine reacts with water to produce nascent oxygen, which acts as an oxidizer.

In summary, the bleaching action of SO2 is temporary and based on reduction, while the bleaching action of Cl2 is permanent and based on oxidation.

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  • What is the Difference Between Bleaching Action of SO2 and Cl2?
  • Comparative Table: Bleaching Action of SO2 vs Cl2

    • Comparative Table: Bleaching Action of SO2 vs Cl2

    The bleaching action of SO2 and Cl2 differs in terms of the type of chemical reaction they undergo and their permanence. Here is a comparison between the two:

    Parameter Bleaching Action of SO2 Bleaching Action of Cl2
    Type of Reaction Reduction Oxidation
    Permanence Temporary Permanent
    Removal of Color Removes oxygen from the colored substance, making it colorless Removes electrons from the substance, causing it to gain color
    Addition of Color Oxygen from the atmosphere slowly replaces the removed oxygen, causing the color to return Adds electrons to the substance, causing it to lose color

    In summary, the bleaching action of SO2 is a reduction reaction that results in temporary bleaching, while the bleaching action of Cl2 is an oxidation reaction that results in permanent bleaching.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.