What is a reducing agent?

A reducing agent is a substance that facilitates reduction by donating electrons to another substance, thereby becoming oxidized itself. In chemical reactions, reduction refers to the gain of electrons by an atom or molecule, which ultimately leads to a decrease in its oxidation state. Thus, the role of the reducing agent is crucial, as it "allows reduction to happen" by losing its own electrons.

This defining characteristic emphasizes the active role of the reducing agent in redox reactions, where the dynamics of electron transfer are key to the chemical processes involved. Without the reducing agent providing electrons, the reduction of other substances would not occur. Therefore, understanding this concept is essential when examining redox reactions and the interplay between oxidizing and reducing agents.