Lugols: reactive oxidizer

[YankeeTankee]

I read lugols contains both Iodine as I2 and K Iodide.

1. Its the iodine (I2) component in lugols that is an oxidizer, disinfectant, has some effect on metals, and is relatively reactive (NOT the K Iodide component), correct?

2. If 1 is correct, Could you think up any ways in which these "other" I2 properties could benefit peoples tanks ie they wants an oxidizer or some effect on metals or whatever?

 

[YankeeTankee]

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[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

I read lugols contains both Iodine as I2 and K Iodide.

1. Its the iodine (I2) component in lugols that is an oxidizer, disinfectant, has some effect on metals, and is relatively reactive (NOT the K Iodide component), correct?

2. If 1 is correct, Could you think up any ways in which these "other" I2 properties could benefit peoples tanks ie they wants an oxidizer or some effect on metals or whatever?

yes on 1. At least simplistically. The I2 in Lugols is actually mostly in the form I3-, which is an I2 with an attached I-

I can imagine a number of pros and cons for question 2, and what benefits one tank might harm another (e.g., trace element bioavailability).