A lead-acid battery that is used in cars and trucks is powered by the reaction: PbO₂(s)+ Pb(s)+ 2H₂SO₄(aq)→ 2PbSO₄(s)+ H₂O(l)The substance that is the oxidizing agent in this battery is:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The substance that is the oxidizing agent is the substance that is being reduced. In this reaction, PbO and Pb are being reduced to PbSO4. Therefore, the oxidizing agent is PbO. Choice A, PbSO4, is one of the products of the reaction and therefore cannot be the oxidizing agent. Choice B, H2SO4, is not being reduced and therefore cannot be the oxidizing agent. Choice D, Pb, is being reduced and therefore cannot be the oxidizing agent. Choice E, H2SO4 and PbSO4, are products of the reaction and therefore cannot be the oxidizing agent.

A Lead-Acid Battery That Is Used in Cars and Trucks