The equation 2KMnO4 + 3H2SO3 -> K2SO4 + 2MnSO4 + 3H2O

  1. Detailed information about the equation:
    The equation indicates the reaction between potassium permanganate (KMnO4) and sulfurous acid (H2SO3) to produce potassium sulfate (K2SO4), manganese sulfate (MnSO4), and water (H2O). This is a type of chemical reaction known as a redox reaction. Herein, the manganese in KMnO4 is reduced from an oxidation state of +7 to +2, while the sulfur in H2SO3 is oxidized from an oxidation state of +4 to +6.

  2. Reaction conditions:
    For the reaction to occur effectively, the necessary condition is an acidic environment. This is because KMnO4 has its strongest reducing ability in acidic conditions. H2SO3 creates the necessary acidic environment for the reaction.

  3. Reaction process:
    When the two substances KMnO4 and H2SO3 meet in an acidic environment, KMnO4 is reduced to MnSO4, while H2SO3 is oxidized to K2SO4. The reaction continues until one of the reactants is exhausted.

  4. Occurring phenomena:
    When the reaction occurs, the characteristic purple color of KMnO4 gradually disappears, replaced by the pale pink color of MnSO4. Simultaneously, gas is generated in the solution, indicating the formation of H2O.

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