The correct option is
C acts as reducing agent.
Explanation for correct option:
(C):
- The reaction corresponding to the gain of Oxygen () or loss of Hydrogen () by a species is called an oxidation reaction. On the other hand, the reaction corresponding to the loss of Oxygen or gain of Hydrogen by a species is called a reduction reaction.
- The substances which have the ability to oxidize others and get reduced by themselves are known as oxidizing agents. Whereas the substances which have the ability to reduce others and get oxidized by themselves are known as reducing agents.
- The given reaction is:
- In this reaction, carbon () atom is converted to carbon monoxide () on the addition of oxygen atom to it. Hence, is being oxidized and acts as a reducing agent. On the other hand, oxygen is getting removed from lead oxide () to form lead (), thus, is getting reduced, and acts as an oxidizing agent. Since oxidation and reduction reactions take place simultaneously, it is a redox reaction.
Explanation for incorrect options:
(A) Since Oxygen is getting removed from Lead oxide () to form Lead (), thus, is getting reduced not oxidized.
(B) In the given reaction, the carbon () atom gets converted to carbon monoxide () on the addition of oxygen atom to it. Hence, is being oxidized and acts as a reducing agent not oxidizing agent.
(D) In the given reaction, oxidation of carbon and reduction of lead oxide takes place. and since oxidation and reduction reactions take place simultaneously, thus, it is a redox reaction.
Final Answer:
Hence, option (C) is correct.