Potassium permanganate is used to purify water as its is

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WBCS Prelims 2020 Official Paper
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  1. sterilizing
  2. oxidizing
  3. reducing
  4. leaching

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 2 : oxidizing
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Detailed Solution

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The correct answer is oxidizing.

Key Points

  • Potassium permanganate (KMnO4) is a strong oxidizing agent that oxidizes dissolved impurities from water such as iron, manganese, and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) by converting them into solid particles.
  • These impurities are then filtered out of the water.
  • It is a salt consisting of K⁺ and MnO− 4 ions.
  • It is a strong oxidizing agent.
  • It is used as a medication for cleaning wounds and dermatitis.

Additional Information

  • Some other chemical disinfectants used for water:
    • Hypochloride
    • Chlorine dioxide
    • Chlorine
    • Hydrogen peroxide
    • Potassium permanganate
    • Gamma rays
    • Ultraviolet light
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