Note that many of the common oxidizing and reducing agents include transition metals.
This is because transition metals can often take on many different oxidation states. Their
low ionization energies and presence of d-orbitals allow them to give up and accept
electrons easily. Transition metals and periodic trends are discussed in Chapter 2 of MCAT
General Chemistry Review.
MCAT Concept Check 4.3:
Before you move on, assess your understanding of the material with these questions.What are some characteristics of good oxidizing agents? List some examples of common
oxidizing agents.Characteristics: Examples: What are some characteristics of good reducing agents? List some examples of common
reducing agents.Characteristics: Examples: