reducing agent

noun

, Chemistry.

a substance that causes another substance to undergo reduction and that is oxidized in the process.

reducing agent

See oxidizing agent
chem a substance that reduces another substance in a chemical reaction, being itself oxidized in the process Compare oxidizing agent

First recorded in 1795–1805

Potassium cyanide is a powerful reducing agent (see p. 89) and is readily oxidized to potassium cyanate.

Potassium cyanide, C(NK), is a powerful reducing agent (see p. 89).

It is rapidly oxidized on exposure, is a strong reducing agent, and reacts vigorously with the halogens.

Hydrogen peroxide can also react as a reducing agent, thus silver oxide is reduced with a rapid evolution of oxygen.

Bisulphite of soda has also often been used as the reducing agent.

April 23, 2024inveterate

[in-vet-er-it ]

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