The reaction Cl2(g)+2OH-(aq)ClO-(aq)+Cl-(aq)+H2O(l) represents the process of bleaching. Identify and name the species that bleaches the substances due to its oxidising action.


Cl02(g)+2O-2H-+1(aq)Cl+1O--2(aq)+Cl--1(aq)+H+12O-2(l)
In this reaction, O.N. of Cl increases from 0 (in Cl2) to 1 (in ClO-) as well as decreases from 0 (in Cl2) to -1 (in Cl-). So, it acts both reducing as well as oxidisng agent. This is an example of disproportionation reaction. In this reaction, ClO- species bleaches the substances due to its oxidising action. [In hypochlorite ion (ClO-) Cl can decrease its oxidation number from +1 to 0 or -1.]