Answer: [tex]Fe^{2+}[/tex] is the reducing agent
Explanation:
Oxidation reaction : When there is an increase in oxidation state number.
Reduction reaction : when there is a decrease in oxidation state number.
[tex]5Fe^{2+}(aq)+MnO_4^-(aq)+8H^+(aq)\rightarrow 5Fe^{3+}(aq)+Mn^{2+}(aq) +4H_2O(l)[/tex]
Fe has undergone oxidation, as its oxidation state is changing from+2 to +3.
Mn has undergone reduction, as its oxidation state is changing from +7 to +2.
The chemical agent which itself get oxidized and reduce others is called reducing agent. [tex]Fe^{2+}[/tex] is a reducing agent.
The chemical agent which itself get reduced and oxidize others is called oxidizing agent. [tex]MnO_4^-[/tex] is an oxidizing agent.
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