 Oxidizing agent

An oxidizing agent undergoes reduction by accepting the formal electron inventory. In the zinc-copper displacement experiment, ${\mathrm{Cu}}^{2+}$ plays this role.^[ref]

An oxidizing agent, or oxidant, is a substance that gains electrons in a chemical reaction and thereby causes another substance to be oxidized. In the process, the oxidizing agent itself is reduced. Oxidizing agents are crucial in redox (reduction-oxidation) reactions, where the transfer of electrons occurs. Common examples of oxidizing agents include: 1. **Oxygen (O₂)** - Often involved in combustion and respiration.