Question

If an element is in its lowest oxidation state under an appropriate condition, it can act as:

• A. a reducing agent
• B. an oxidizing agent
• C. oxidant or reduct ant depending upon whether its oxidation number is +ve or -ve
• D. neither an oxidant nor reductant

Answer 1

The correct option is A a reducing agent

Lowest oxidation of a metal is $0$, hence it is electron rich and can act as reducing agents.
Now consider a nonmetal. A non-metal in its lowest oxidation state would be in anionic form, It can lose its extra electron to reduce a substance.
Hence, $A$ is the right answer.