Question detail
Which statement correctly identifies the reducing agent in a redox reaction?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Oxidation, reduction and redox equations
Question
- A. It is the species that is oxidised.
- B. It is the species that is reduced.
- C. It gains electrons.
- D. It loses electrons.
Answer
It is the species that is oxidised.
Explanation
The reducing agent is the species that donates electrons and is oxidised in the process, leading to a decrease in its oxidation state.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Reduction
Students often confuse reduction with an increase in oxidation state instead of a decrease.
Reduction is defined as a decrease in oxidation state. To clarify, remember that when an element gains electrons, its oxidation state decreases. For example, in the reaction where Fe^3+ gains an electron to become Fe^2+, the oxidation state decreases from +3 to +2, confirming that reduction has occurred.
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