Chapter F, Problem K.4AST

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Oxidizing agent and reducing agent has to be identified in the given reaction.

    ${\text{2H}}_{\text{2}}\text{S(g)}+{\text{SO}}_{\text{2}}\to 3\text{S}(\text{s})+2{\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}(l)$

Concept Introduction:

In redox reactions, oxidizing agent is the one that gets reduced by causing oxidation.  These agents can be ions, elements, or even compounds.  In oxidation, the oxidation number increases due to loss of electrons.

In redox reactions, reducing agent is the one that gets oxidized by causing reduction.  These agents can be ions, elements, or even compounds.  In reduction, the oxidation number decreases due to gain of electrons.