Question

In the redox reaction below, which is the reducing agent?

MnO2 (s)  + 4H+(aq) + 2Cl (aq) Mn2+(aq)  + 2H2O(l) + Cl2(g)

Answer 1

Chlorine (Cl) lost electrons to form Cl2, it was oxidized and made the reducing agent.

so the correct answer should be chlorine.

hope this helps :)

Answer 2

Cl⁻ is the reducing agent.

Step-by-step explanation:

Reduction is the gain of electrons and oxidation is the gain of electrons.

Oxidation half reaction:

2Cl⁻ → Cl₂ + 2e

Here Cl⁻ is losing two electrons to form Cl₂. Cl⁻ is itself undergoing oxidation reaction hence it is a reducing agent. Cl⁻ as a reducing agent provides electrons for the reduction reaction.