Chapter 20.1, Problem 6LC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The method that can be used for the identification of oxidizing and reducing agents in a particular chemical reaction is to be determined.

Concept introduction: The reaction in which oxidation and reduction take place simultaneously is a redox reaction. The process that involves the loss of electrons in a chemical reaction is referred to as oxidation. And the process that involves the gain of electrons in a chemical reaction is referred to as the reduction.

Answer to Problem 6LC

The oxidizing and reducing agents can be identified by checking the oxidation number of chemical species. The one in which the oxidation number decreased is oxidizing agent while the one in which the oxidation number increased is a reducing agent.

Explanation of Solution

In a redox reaction, the reagent that helps in the oxidation and loss of electrons of chemical species is referred to as a reducing agent. And the reagent that helps in the reduction of chemical species and gain of electrons is referred to as an oxidizing agent. So, oxidizing agents accept electrons while reducing agents lose electrons.

The oxidizing and reducing agents in a chemical reaction can be identified with the help of the oxidation number of chemical species.

The one in which the oxidation number is found to be decreased is the oxidizing agent. While the one in which the oxidation number is found to be increased is the reducing agent.