(AuCl3)2 + 3 SO2 + 6 H2O → 2 Au + 3 H2SO4 + 6 HCl
This is an oxidation-reduction (redox) reaction:
3 SIV - 6 e- → 3 SVI (oxidation)
2 AuIII + 6 e- → 2 Au0 (reduction)
SO2 is a reducing agent, (AuCl3)2 is an oxidizing agent.
Reactants:
- (AuCl3)2
- SO2 – Sulfur dioxide
- Other names: Sulfurous anhydride , Sulphur dioxide , Sulfurous acid anhydride
- Appearance: Colorless gas ; Colourless gas or compressed liquefied gas with pungent odour ; Colorless gas with a characteristic, irritating, pungent odor. [Note: A liquid below 14°F. Shipped as a liquefied compressed gas.]
- H2O – Water, oxidane
Products:
- Au
- H2SO4 – Sulfuric acid
- HCl – Chlorane , Hydrogen chloride
- Other names: Hydrochloric acid , M , Uriatic acid
- Appearance: Colorless, transparent liquid, fumes in air if concentrated ; Colorless gas ; Colourless compressed liquefied gas with pungent odour ; Colorless to slightly yellow gas with a pungent, irritating odor. [Note: Shipped as a liquefied compressed gas.]