Question

In the reaction , 2fecl2 + cl2 > 2fecl2 , chlorine may be regarded as

• an oxidizing agent
• a reducing agent
• a catalyst
• providing an inert medium

and support your answer with explanation.

Answer 1

2FeCl₂ + Cl₂ → 2FeCl₃

Chlorine is being reduced, as it goes from 0 oxidation state to -1 and Iron is being oxidised, as it goes from an oxidation state of +2 in FeCl₂, to a state of +3 in FeCl₃.
Hence it acts as an oxidising agent. Answer is (A).