Question

"(\(O_3\))behaves as a strong oxidising agent." Explain.

Hint:

Ozone’s strong oxidizing nature is used in applications like water treatment, where it helps break down pollutants by oxidation.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understand the concept of oxidizing agent.
An oxidizing agent is a substance that gains electrons in a chemical reaction, causing the oxidation of another substance. It essentially facilitates the oxidation process by accepting electrons.
Step 2: Understand why \( O_3 \) is a strong oxidizing agent.
Ozone (\( O_3 \)) is a strong oxidizing agent because of its molecular structure. The oxygen-oxygen bonds in ozone are weak, making it easy for the molecule to decompose and release oxygen atoms. These released oxygen atoms can react with other molecules, oxidizing them.
Step 3: Reaction example.
When ozone reacts with an electron donor (such as a metal or organic compound), it gains electrons and forms \( O_2 \), thereby oxidizing the other substance. For example: \[ O_3 \rightarrow O_2 + O \] The released atomic oxygen (\( O \)) is highly reactive and can readily oxidize other substances.
Final Answer: Ozone behaves as a strong oxidizing agent due to its ability to release reactive oxygen atoms, which readily oxidize other substances.
Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{Ozone (\(O_3\)) is a strong oxidizing agent due to its ability to release reactive oxygen atoms and oxidize other substances.}} \]