In this redox reaction, identify the reducing agent. 2mgo → 2mg + o2 a. h2o b. mg c. mgo d. o

When you look up reducing agent, every definition you find uses the word 'substance.' For example, LiAlH4 is a powerful reducing agent, however only the H^- gets oxidized as LiAlH4 reduces some other element in a different compound.  

For your problem, let us write the equation this way:  

MgO +MgO ---> 2Mg + O2  

The O is oxidized from -2 to zero and is the specific atom that is the reducing agent, since it is the Mg that gets reduced from +2 to zero.  

However, should we pick MgO as the reducing agent (following the usual book definition) or should we pick the oxygen by itself?  

Based on the unusual nature of the problem, I will recommend you pick the O. However, be prepared for it to be the wrong choice and the correct answer to then be MgO.

Source(s):

ChemTeam

to summarize what the guy said, its d. O

this is right on plato, got 5/5

posting this for future users!

catya that's not even a b or c