Question

In the reaction $\mathrm{Mg}+{\mathrm{Cl}}_2\to {\mathrm{MgCl}}_2$, Chlorine may be regarded as:

• A. an oxidizing agent
• B. a reducing agent
• C. a catalyst
• D. providing an inert medium

Answer 1

The correct option is A

an oxidizing agent

Redox reactions:

Reactions in which oxidation and reduction occur simultaneously are called redox reactions. In these reactions, one of the reactant gets oxidized and other gets reduced. Oxidation involves the removal of electrons causing an increase in the oxidation state of reactant. Reduction involves the addition of electrons and cause a decrease in the oxidation state of reactant.

Oxidizing agent: The reactant that gets reduced in the redox reaction by gaining electrons is called the oxidizing agent.

Reducing agent: The reactant that gets oxidized in the redox reaction by losing electrons is called the reducing agent.

In the given redox reaction, the oxidation state of chlorine decreases from 0 in Chlorine (Cl₂) to -1 in Magnesium chloride (MgCl₂). Chlorine is regarded as an oxidizing agent as chlorine is getting reduced.

Option b) is incorrect because the reducing agent gets oxidized. Chlorine is getting reduced in the given reaction and therefore cannot be the reducing agent.

Option c) is not the correct answer because chlorine undergoes changes in the reaction. A catalyst in a reaction remains unaffected throughout the reaction.

Option d) is incorrect because Chlorine takes part in the reaction.

Hence, option a) is the correct answer.