Oxidizing agent (oxidant)

Definition

An oxidizing agent, or oxidant, is a substance that gains electrons in a chemical reaction and, in the process, causes another substance to be oxidized. It is reduced while the other substance is oxidized.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Oxidizing agents are typically found on the left side of a redox reaction equation.
2. Common examples of oxidizing agents include oxygen ($O_2$), hydrogen peroxide ($H_2O_2$), and potassium permanganate ($KMnO_4$).
3. In redox reactions, the oxidizing agent undergoes reduction by gaining electrons.
4. The strength of an oxidizing agent can be measured using standard electrode potentials; higher positive values indicate stronger oxidants.
5. Oxidizing agents play crucial roles in various chemical processes, including combustion, respiration, and industrial bleaching.

Review Questions

Related terms

Reduction:

The gain of electrons or decrease in oxidation state by a molecule, atom, or ion.

Redox Reaction:

A type of chemical reaction that involves a transfer of electrons between two species; it includes both reduction and oxidation processes.

Reducing Agent:

A substance that loses electrons in a chemical reaction and causes another substance to be reduced. It is itself oxidized in the process.