Question

Which of the following acts as a reducing agent?

• A. $HN{O}_3$
• B. $KMn{O}_4$
• C. $H_{2}S{O}_4$
• D. Oxalic acid

Answer 1

The correct option is D

Oxalic acid

The compound in which the central atom is in highest oxidation state can never act as a reducing agent, as it cannot be further oxidised.

In oxalic acid, C atoms are in +3 oxidation state, hence it can act as a reducing agent - it can be oxidised to the +4 state.