Question

Identify the oxidant and the reductant in the following reaction respectively:
$AlC{l}_3+3K\to Al+3KCl$

• A. $K$ and $AlC{l}_3$
• B. $AlC{l}_3$ and $K$
• C. $Al$ and $KCl$
• D. $KCl$ and $Al$

Answer 1

The correct option is B $AlC{l}_3$ and $K$

The given redox reaction is $AlC{l}_3+3K\to Al+3KCl$
A species which loses electron in a redox reaction is called as reducing agent/reductant.
$3K\to 3K^{+}+3e^{-}$ (Oxidation).
Here K is losing reagent so it is a reductant.

A species which gains electron in a redox reaction is called as oxidising agent/oxidant.
$3e^{-}+A{l}^{3+}\to Al$ (Reduction).
Here Al is gaining reagent so it is an oxidant.