Answer:
Explanation:
To determine the oxidizing agent in the given reaction:
The oxidizing agent is the substance that gets reduced during the reaction, meaning it gains electrons. It facilitates the oxidation of another substance.
In the given reaction:
\[ \text{Fe}_2\text{O}_3 + 3\text{CO} = 2\text{Fe} + 3\text{CO}_2 \]
Iron(III) oxide (\( \text{Fe}_2\text{O}_3 \)) is reduced to iron (\( \text{Fe} \)), while carbon monoxide (\( \text{CO} \)) is oxidized to carbon dioxide (\( \text{CO}_2 \)).
Therefore, the oxidizing agent is \( \text{CO} \), as it causes the oxidation of another substance (iron(III) oxide).
So, the correct answer is: a. CO.
