Oxidising Agents

Introduction:

• Oxidising agents are substances that facilitate oxidation reactions by accepting electrons from other substances.

Examples of Oxidising Agents:

Copper(II) Oxide (CuO):

• When used as an oxidising agent, copper(II) oxide changes its colour from black to red-brown.
• Example equation: CH₃CHO + CuO → CH₃COOH + Cu

Potassium Dichromate (K2Cr2O7):

• Acidified potassium dichromate solution is another oxidising agent.
• It causes the orange colour of Cr₂O₇²⁻ ions to change to green/blue Cr³⁺ ions.
• Example equation: (Not provided)

How Oxidising Agents Work:

• Oxidising agents gain electrons during a reaction, which leads to the reduction of another substance. This process is essential in various chemical reactions.

Importance:

• Oxidising agents play a crucial role in many chemical reactions, including combustion, rusting, and organic synthesis.

Key Points:

• Oxidising agents accept electrons from other substances.
• Copper(II) oxide and potassium dichromate are examples of oxidising agents.
• Oxidation-reduction reactions involve the transfer of electrons between substances.