In a redox reaction, a molecule that functions as the electron donor __________.

• A. acts as the oxidizing agent
• B. is oxidized
• C. is reduced
• D. gains electrons

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the roles in a redox reaction: the electron donor is the species that loses electrons, while the electron acceptor gains electrons.
2. Recall that oxidation is defined as the loss of electrons, and reduction is the gain of electrons.
3. Since the electron donor loses electrons, it undergoes oxidation.
4. The species that causes another to be oxidized (by accepting electrons) is called the oxidizing agent, so the electron donor is not the oxidizing agent but rather the reducing agent.
5. Therefore, the molecule that functions as the electron donor is oxidized because it loses electrons during the redox reaction.