Why is $HCl$ not used to make the medium acidic in oxidation reactions of $KMnO_4$ in acidic medium?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → $KMnO_4$ oxidises $HCl$ into $Cl_2$ which is also an oxidizing agent
- In acidic medium, KMnO₄ is a strong oxidizing agent.
- If HCl is used as the acid, KMnO₄ oxidizes Cl⁻ from HCl to Cl₂ gas, which interferes with the intended reaction.
- Therefore, H₂SO₄ is preferred to provide an acidic medium without introducing another oxidizable species.
Hence, the correct reason is: KMnO₄ oxidises HCl into Cl₂ which is also an oxidizing agent.