Question
Question: Consider the reaction: $I_2 + H_2O_2 + 2OH^- \rightarrow 2I^- + 2H_2O + O_2$. Which of the following...
Consider the reaction: I2+H2O2+2OH−→2I−+2H2O+O2. Which of the following statements are correct?

A
I2 is oxidized.
B
H2O2 is reduced.
C
I2 acts as an oxidizing agent.
D
H2O2 acts as a reducing agent.
Answer
(C) I2 acts as an oxidizing agent. (D) H2O2 acts as a reducing agent.
Explanation
Solution
The reaction involves changes in oxidation states: Iodine in I2 (oxidation state 0) is reduced to I− (oxidation state -1). A species that is reduced acts as an oxidizing agent, therefore, I2 is the oxidizing agent. Oxygen in H2O2 (oxidation state -1) is oxidized to O2 (oxidation state 0). A species that is oxidized acts as a reducing agent, therefore, H2O2 is the reducing agent. The presence of OH− indicates that the reaction is taking place in a basic medium.