Question

HNO3 acts as an oxidizing agent only whereas HNO2 acts an oxidizing as well as reducing agent. Why?

Answer 1

Hey there!!!

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In HNO3 , oxidizing state of nitrogen is +5.
The maximum and minimum oxidation state of nitrogen are +5 and  -3 respectively.Thus there is only one possibility to decrease the oxidation state of nitrogen. In other words, HNO3 can be reduced only and hence acts as an oxidizing agent only.

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In HNO2, oxidation state of nitrogen is +3. Thus oxidation state of nitrogen present in HNO2 can be increased or decreased and hence it can act as an oxidizing agent or as a reducing agent.

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HOPE IT HELPS!!

#RUHANIKA

Answer 2

HNO3 acts as an oxidizing agent only whereas HNO2 acts an oxidizing as well as reducing agent. Why?