Reducing Agents

Reducing agents (pronunciation: /rɪˈdjuːsɪŋ ˈeɪdʒənts/) are substances that donate electrons to another substance in a redox reaction. The term originates from the Latin words 'reducere' meaning 'to lead back' and 'agens' meaning 'doing'.

Definition

A reducing agent, also known as a reductant or reducer, is a reactant that reduces other reactants by donating electrons, thereby decreasing the oxidation state of the other reactant. This process is known as reduction.

Examples

Common examples of reducing agents include hydrogen, iron, and zinc. In biological systems, important reducing agents are glutathione, vitamin C, and NADH.

Role in Medicine

In medicine, reducing agents are used in various treatments and diagnostic procedures. For instance, they are used in chemotherapy to reduce the side effects of drugs, and in radiology to enhance the quality of images.

Related Terms

Oxidizing agent: A substance that accepts electrons from another substance in a redox reaction.
Redox reaction: A type of chemical reaction that involves a transfer of electrons between two species.
Oxidation: The loss of electrons during a reaction by a molecule, atom or ion.
Reduction: The gain of electrons during a reaction by a molecule, atom or ion.