reducing agent
Pronunciation
Noun
B2 Upper-intermediate
Quick answer
A substance that causes another substance to gain electrons during a chemical reaction, while it is itself oxidised.
Synonyms and antonyms
Antonyms
Usage notes
A useful memory aid is OIL RIG: oxidation is loss, reduction is gain, of electrons.
Test yourself
Which word fits the gap? "Carbon acts as the _____ when it extracts iron from its ore in a blast furnace."
Answer: reducing agent
In your own words, what does "reducing agent" mean?
A substance that causes another substance to gain electrons during a chemical reaction, while it is itself oxidised.
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