Question

An oxidizing-reduction reaction involves the transfer of electrons from one species to another. Which phrase best describes an oxidizing agent?
Responses

a substance that reacts with oxygen
a substance that reacts with oxygen - no response given

a substance that provides electrons to other substances
a substance that provides electrons to other substances - no response given

a substance that provides oxygen in a reaction
a substance that provides oxygen in a reaction - no response given

a substance that gains an electron in a reaction
a substance that gains an electron in a reaction - no response given

Answer 1

The phrase that best describes an oxidizing agent is:

**a substance that gains an electron in a reaction.**

An oxidizing agent is reduced (gains electrons) while causing the oxidation (loss of electrons) of another species.