Consider the reaction that occurs when copper is added to nitric acid. mc024-1.jpg what is the reducing agent in this reaction? cu no3– cu(no3)2 no2

This question requires understanding of oxidation states and differentiating between a reducing agent and an oxidizing agent. An oxidizing agent gains electrons and is reduced, which means the oxidation number decreases. A reducing agent loses electrons and is oxidized, which means an increase in oxidation state.

In the equation,

Cu in the solid state has 0 charge but in it loses 2 electrons to become ion with a +2 charge, while nitrate gains electrons to become nitrite ,  -2 charge. Therefore we can conclude that Cu is the reducing agent.