PCl5 can only act as an oxidizing agent and not as a reducing agent. The highest oxidation state that P can undergo is +5. In phosphorous pentachloride, PCl5, phosphorus is in its highest oxidation state (+5). However, the oxidation state can decrease and then it can act as an oxidizing agent.
Can PCl5 act as an oxidising as well as a reducing agent? Justify.
Can PCl5 act as an oxidising as well as a reducing agent? Justify.