What is the definition of a reducing agent?

A reducing agent is defined as a substance that donates electrons to another substance in a chemical reaction, thus reducing that other substance. In the process of donating electrons, the reducing agent itself becomes oxidized, meaning it loses electrons. This is foundational to redox (reduction-oxidation) reactions where one substance is reduced and another is oxidized.

The correct answer states that a reducing agent is a substance that accepts electrons and becomes reduced. This aligns with the role of a reducing agent, as it effectively acts to reduce another compound. By doing so, the reducing agent becomes oxidized in the reaction.

In contrast, the definition emphasizing the loss of electrons aligns with properties of oxidizing agents, which accept electrons. Therefore, understanding the fundamental role of a reducing agent in electron transfer reactions clarifies its definition and significance in chemical processes.