Can Sodium Hydrosulfite Be Used As A Bleaching Agent?

Yes, sodium hydrosulfite (Na2S2O4) can be used as a bleaching agent. It is commonly used in textile industries to remove the color from fabrics and in paper mills to bleach pulp. Sodium hydrosulfite works by reducing the chromophores (color-causing) groups in the molecules, leading to a colorless or white product. It is also used in the food industry as a food additive to preserve the color of certain foods. However, it should be handled with care as it is a strong reducing agent and can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.