Question

Distinguish between oxidizing and reducing agents with examples

Answer 1

The substance which supplies oxygen by reducing itself is called Oxidising Agent.

The substance which accepts oxygen by oxidising itself is called the Reducing Agent.

For example: Fe2O3 + 2Al ---> Al2O3 + 2Fe

here, Fe2O3 is giving oxygen and hence is an oxidising agent... while... 2Al is gaining oxygen and hence is the Reducing agent.

Answer 2

An oxidizing agent, or oxidant, gains electrons and is reduced in a chemical reaction. Also known as the electron acceptor, the oxidizing agent is normally in one of its higher possible oxidation states because it will gain electrons and be reduced. Examples of oxidizing agents include halogens, potassium nitrate, and nitric acid.

A reducing agent, or reductant, loses electrons and is oxidized in a chemical reaction. A reducing agent is typically in one of its lower possible oxidation states, and is known as the electron donor. A reducing agent is oxidized, because it loses electrons in the redox reaction. Examples of reducing agents include the earth metals, formic acid, and sulfite compounds.