A dilute ferrous sulphate solution was gradually added to the beaker

• GC Chemical Reactions

A dilute ferrous sulphate solution was gradually added to the beaker containing acidified permanganate solution. The light purple colour of the solution fades and finally disappears. Which of the following is the correct explanation for the observation?

1. KMnO₄ is an oxidising agent, it oxidises FeSO₄
2. FeSO₄ acts as an oxidising agent and oxidises KMnO₄
3. The colour disappears due to dilution; no reaction is involved
4. KMnO₄ is an unstable compound and decomposes in presence of FeSO₄ to a colourless compound.

Answer

Potassium permanganate (KMnO₄) acts as good oxidising agent in acidic medium and reduces itself to manganese (II) cations, Mn²⁺. It oxidises FeSO₄ to Fe₂(SO₄)₃.

The correct option is A.