Question

Which statement best identifies and describes the oxidizing agent in the reaction? 2Al + 3Br2 → 2AlBr3

Al is the oxidizing agent because its oxidation number increases.
Al is the oxidizing agent because its oxidation number decreases.
Br2 is the oxidizing agent because its oxidation number increases.
Br2 is the oxidizing agent because its oxidation number decreases.

Answer 1

Answer:option d

Step-by-step explanation:

Answer 2

Answer: Option (d) is the correct answer.

Step-by-step explanation:

An oxidizing agent is a specie which accepts electrons and gets reduced in a chemical reaction.

In the given reaction,
`2Al + 3Br_(2) \rightarrow 2AlBr_(3)`

Oxidation state of Al changes from 0 to +3, therefore, it is reducing agent. Whereas oxidation state of Br is changing from -2 to -3 this means Br is gaining electrons, therefore, it is an oxidizing agent.

Thus, we can conclude that the statement
`Br_(2)` is the oxidizing agent because its oxidation number decreases.