In the following redox reaction: 2KMnO₄ + 16HCl → 2KCl + 2MnCl₂ + 5Cl₂ + 8H₂O, which substance acts as the reducing agent?
KMnO₄
HCl
MnCl₂
Cl₂
📝 Detailed explanation
The oxidation state of Chlorine in HCl is -1 and it increases to 0 in Cl₂. Since Chlorine loses electrons, HCl is oxidized and thus acts as the reducing agent.
