Reactions that are classified as oxidation-reduction (redox) reactions all have the common trait that electrons leave one component (that is, getting oxidized) to be taken up by another component (that is, getting reduced). The component that gives up electrons, in a sense, is causing the other component to be reduced. That is why the component that gets oxidized in the reaction is called the reducing agent. (The component getting reduced can only do so if the other component becomes oxidized.) This is why the component getting reduced is called the oxidizing agent.
Assigning these important identifying labels can prove confusing. In this investigation, you will practice identifying the oxidizing and reducing agents through some interesting and useful analyses.
Required Materials
From your supply kit, you will need:
• Iodine.
• Medicine dropper.
• Graduated cylinder.
• Beaker.
You will be expected to furnish the following materials on your own:
• A scale capable of weighing twenty grams (if you took Chemistry 1 from the Independent Study High School, the scale you received in the kit for that course will work).
• Orange juice (or some light colored fruit juice).
• Bottled green tea drink (or other light colored soft drink with added antioxidants).
• A green bell pepper.
• Cornstarch.