1. In the following reactions, identify which reactants are the oxidizing agent and which are the reducing agents.

a. 2S2O32- (aq) + I2 (s) �¨ 2I- (aq) + S4O62- (aq)


b. NO3- (aq) + Zn (s) �¨ Zn2+ (aq) + NO2 (g)

1 answer

Oxidation is the loss of electrons; that substance is the reducing agent.

Reduction is the gain of electrons; that substance is the oxidizing agent.