Question

Rank these species by their ability to act as an oxidizing agent

Cu+

Br2

Cr2+

Na+

Answer 1

A reducing agent, or reductant, loses electrons and is oxidized in a chemical reaction. A reducing agent is typically in one of its lower possible oxidation states, and is known as the electron donor. A reducing agent is oxidized, because it loses electrons in the redox reaction. Examples of reducing agents include the earth metals, formic acid, and sulfite compounds.

Na⁺ > Cr₂⁺ >Cu⁺ > Br₂