Science Common Sense
1519 - What are the definitions and common examples of oxidizing agents and reducing agents.
In chemistry, there are two important kinds of substances: oxidizing agents and reducing agents.
- Oxidizing Agents: These are substances that help remove electrons from other substances. When something loses electrons, it gets "oxidized." Examples of oxidizing agents include:
- Bleach (used to whiten clothes)
- Oxygen (helps burn things in fire)
Chlorine (used to disinfect swimming pools)
Reducing Agents: These are substances that help give electrons to other substances. When something gains electrons, it gets "reduced." Examples of reducing agents include:
- Vitamins (like Vitamin C, which helps keep you healthy)
- Metals (like iron or zinc, which can help protect other metals from rust)
- Hydrogen (it helps carry energy in fuel cells)
Think of it like money being given or taken. Oxidizing agents take electrons (like taking money), and reducing agents give electrons (like giving money).