Which of the following statements about redox reactions is false?

• A. The substance that is oxidized is called the reducing agent.
• B. Reduction involves the gain of electrons.
• C. Oxidation involves the loss of electrons.
• D. The substance that is reduced is called the oxidizing agent.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definitions of oxidation and reduction in redox reactions. Oxidation is the loss of electrons, and reduction is the gain of electrons.
2. Step 2: Identify the roles of substances in redox reactions. The substance that loses electrons (is oxidized) donates electrons and is called the reducing agent.
3. Step 3: Similarly, the substance that gains electrons (is reduced) accepts electrons and is called the oxidizing agent.
4. Step 4: Analyze each statement given: confirm that 'Reduction involves the gain of electrons' is true, 'Oxidation involves the loss of electrons' is true, and 'The substance that is reduced is called the oxidizing agent' is true.
5. Step 5: Recognize that the false statement is the one that incorrectly labels the substance that is oxidized as the reducing agent, which is actually true; therefore, check carefully if any statement contradicts these definitions to identify the false one.