Question

In the reaction $2\mathrm{Mg}+{\mathrm{CO}}_2\to 2\mathrm{MgO}+\mathrm{C}$, oxidizing and reducing agents are respectively __________ and ____________.

• A. ${CO}_2$
• B. $Mg$

Answer 1

• In a chemical reaction, if the loss and gain of electrons take place by the atoms or the ions, then it is said to be a redox reaction.
• In this reaction, magnesium loses two electrons and becomes an ${\mathrm{Mg}}^{2+}$ion. Magnesium is oxidised and acts as a reducing agent. Carbon gains two electrons. It gets reduced and acts as an oxidising agent.

Therefore, in the reaction $2\mathrm{Mg}\left(\mathrm{s}\right)+{\mathrm{CO}}_2\left(\mathrm{g}\right)\to 2\mathrm{MgO}\left(\mathrm{s}\right)+\mathrm{C}\left(\mathrm{s}\right)$ oxidising and reducing agents are ${\mathrm{CO}}_2$and$\mathrm{Mg}$.