In the balanced equation 3Na⁺(aq)+ 3OH^-(aq)+ P₄(s)+ 3H₂O(l)→ 3Na⁺(aq)+ 3H₂PO₂^-(aq)+ PH₃(g) What is the reducing agent?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The reducing agent is the species that gets oxidized, meaning it loses electrons. In this reaction, P₄ (phosphorus in a higher oxidation state) is converted to PH₃ (phosphorus in a lower oxidation state), indicating it has lost electrons and thus acted as the reducing agent.

In the Balanced Equation