Answer:
Oxidizing Agent - Nitrogen
Reducing Agent - Hydrogen
Explanation:
The equation of the reaction is given as;
N2 + H2 --> 2 NH3
Oxidation Rules:
- The oxidation number of an element in it's free state is Zero. This means oxidation state of N2 and H2 are Zero.
- The oxidation number of a neutral compound is the sum of the oxidation state of the individual elements and is equal to zero.
- Oxidation Number of Hydrogen in a compound/Molecule is 1 except in hydrides where it is -1
This means that oxidation number of H in NH3 = 1
Oxidation state of N in NH3;
x + 3(1) = 0
x = -3
The reducing agent loses electrons. Loss of electrons is represented by increase in oxidation Number. The oxidation number of H increases from 0 to + 1
The Oxidizing agent gains electrons. Gain of electrons is represented by decrease in oxidation Number. The oxidation number of N decreases from 0 to -3
