Reducing Agent
What is Reducing Agent?
A reducing agent (reductant) is a substance that donates electrons to another substance in a redox reaction, causing that substance to be reduced. In the process, the reducing agent itself is oxidised (loses electrons and increases in oxidation state). Common reducing agents include hydrogen gas, carbon monoxide, metals, and sulfite ions. In biology, NADH is an important reducing agent in metabolism.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
A reducing agent (reductant) is a substance that donates electrons to another substance in a redox reaction, causing that substance to be reduced. In the process, the reducing agent itself is oxidised (loses electrons and increases in oxidation state). Common reducing agents include hydrogen gas, carbon monoxide, metals, and sulfite ions. In biology, NADH is an important reducing agent in metabolism.