Consider the following reaction: 2KBr + Cl2 -> 2KCl + Br2. Which statement correctly identifies the oxidizing agent and the reducing agent?
Show the answer and explanation
Correct answer
A. Cl2 is the oxidizing agent; Br- is the reducing agent.
Principle or equation
In a redox reaction, the oxidizing agent is the species that is reduced (gains electrons), and the reducing agent is the species that is oxidized (loses electrons).
Why this answer is correct
In the reaction, chlorine (Cl2) is reduced to chloride ions (Cl-), gaining electrons, so it is the oxidizing agent. Bromide ions (Br-) are oxidized to bromine (Br2), losing electrons, so they are the reducing agent. Potassium ions (K+) are spectator ions and do not change oxidation state.
Example
Cl2 + 2e- -> 2Cl- (reduction); 2Br- -> Br2 + 2e- (oxidation).
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