Question

Strong reducing behaviour of H₃PO₂ is due to

(a) high electron gain enthalpy of phosphorus

(b) high oxidation state of phosphorus

(c) presence of two -OH groups and one P-H bond

(d) presence of one -OH group and two P-H bonds

Answer 1

Correct option (d) presence of one -OH group and two P-H bonds

Explanation :

All oxyacids of phosphorus which have P-H bonds act as strong reducing agents. H₃PO₂ has two P-H bonds hence, it acts as a strong reducing agent.