Question

What is the reducing agent in the following reaction

Answer 1

Answer: $Fe^{2+}$ is the reducing agent

Explanation:

Oxidation reaction : When there is an increase in oxidation state number.

Reduction reaction : when there is a decrease in oxidation state number.

$5Fe^{2+}(aq)+MnO_4^-(aq)+8H^+(aq)\rightarrow 5Fe^{3+}(aq)+Mn^{2+}(aq) +4H_2O(l)$

Fe has undergone oxidation, as its oxidation state is changing from+2 to +3.

Mn has undergone reduction, as its oxidation state is changing from +7 to +2.

The chemical agent which itself get oxidized and reduce others is called reducing agent.  $Fe^{2+}$  is a reducing agent.

The chemical agent which itself get reduced and oxidize others is called oxidizing agent. $MnO_4^-$ is an oxidizing agent.

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