Reducing Agent
| Also Known As | Reductant, electron donor, reducer |
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What is Reducing Agent?
A substance that donates electrons to another species in a redox reaction, causing that species to be reduced. The reducing agent itself is oxidized in the process. Examples include metals, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide.
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
A substance that donates electrons to another species in a redox reaction, causing that species to be reduced. The reducing agent itself is oxidized in the process. Examples include metals, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide.
Reducing agents are used in metallurgy to extract metals from their ores (e.g., coke reducing iron ore). They are used in organic synthesis to reduce functional groups. Industrial reducing agents like hydrogen are used in the Haber process and hydrogenation reactions.
Many reducing agents are flammable or pyrophoric (e.g., lithium aluminium hydride, sodium borohydride). They should be handled under inert atmospheres and kept away from oxidising agents to prevent fire or explosion.