Question

In the reaction of magnesium with oxygen, explain which atom is the reducing agent.

Answer 1

Answer:

Mg.

Explanation:

• The oxidation-reduction reaction contains a reductant and an oxidant (oxidizing agent).

• 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.

• A reducing agent (also called a reductant or reducer) is an element (such as calcium) or compound that loses (or "donates") an electron to another chemical species in a redox chemical reaction.

• For the reaction:

Mg + 1/2O₂ → MgO.

Mg is oxidized to Mg²⁺ in (MgO) (loses 2 electrons). "reducing agent".

O is reduced to O²⁻ in (MgO) (gains 2 electrons). "oxidizing agent".