Difference Between Oxidizing and Reducing Agents
The difference between oxidizing and reducing agent can be understood from the table given below.
|
Aspect |
Oxidizing Agent |
Reducing Agent |
|---|---|---|
|
Definition |
Causes other substances to undergo oxidation by accepting electrons. |
Causes other substances to undergo reduction by donating electrons. |
|
Role in Reaction |
Facilitates oxidation reactions by gaining electrons. |
Facilitates reduction reactions by losing electrons. |
|
Effect on Oxidization State of Other |
Increases oxidation state of other substances. |
Decreases oxidation state of other substances. |
|
Examples |
Oxygen, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), chlorine, fluorine. |
Metals such as sodium (Na), lithium (Li) and zinc (Zn). |
Common Oxidizing and Reducing Agents
Some of the commonly used oxidizing and reducing agents are tabulated below:
|
Oxidizing Agents |
Reducing Agents |
|---|---|
|
Oxygen (O2) |
Hydrogen (H2) |
|
Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) |
Carbon Monoxide (CO) |
|
Halogens (Cl2, F2, Br2) |
Metal Hydrides (e.g., LiH) |
|
Potassium Permanganate (KMnO4) |
Metal Oxides (e.g., FeO) |
|
Chromate (CrO42-) |
Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) |
|
Nitric Acid (HNO3) |
Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) |
Related Articles
Oxidizing Agent
An oxidizing agent is a substance that facilitates oxidation in other substances by accepting electrons, leading to an increase in their oxidation state. It promotes oxidation reactions by causing the loss of electrons in the reactants. In this article, we will learn about the meaning of oxidizing agents, factors affecting the oxidizing power of an oxidizing agent, properties of oxidizing agents, examples and applications of oxidizing agents, the difference between oxidizing agents and reducing agents.
Table of Content
- What is an Oxidizing Agent?
- Factors Affecting the Oxidizing Power of an Oxidizing Agent
- Examples of Oxidizing Agents
- Applications of Oxidizing Agents
- Difference Between Oxidizing and Reducing Agents