Definition of Oxidizing Agents

Definition of Oxidizing AgentsOxidizing agents are organic compounds that react with the oxygen in an organic substance and break down it to its constituent elements. The oxidation process can be performed chemically or it can be accomplished through physical processes. Depending on which method is used, oxidizing agents will be included in many scientific procedures.An oxidizing agent is simply any chemical or organic compound that reacts with the oxygen to form water, carbon dioxide, or a combination of the two. Water, carbon dioxide, and a combination of the two are known as condensation products. Both water and carbon dioxide are liquids and gases that are non-toxic, inert, and non-combustible. These substances are commonly used in preparing fuels for vehicles.A unique catalyst, such as hydrochloric acid, is sometimes used to react with the oxygen in an organic substance to generate a greater amount of heat than could be generated by a certain other type of catalyst. Often referr ed to as a 'water-burning' catalyst, this kind of catalyst acts as a catalyst to accelerate the oxidation of a given substance, by creating more of a product that would have otherwise been produced by the breaking down of the substance to its constituent elements. For example, ammonia reacts with oxygen to generate acetaldehyde.Hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and other combustible gases react with the oxidizing agent to produce water, carbon dioxide, and a combination of the two. The condensation products of hydrogen and other oxidizing agents are also referred to as carbonyl compound.By the same reasoning, some methods of oxidation that use bismuth oxychloride and phosphoric acid are referred to as the metal oxide reaction. This reaction is also known as the life-cycle method. Sometimes there are additional steps after the metal oxide reaction. For example, ammonia and nitric acid react with carbon dioxide to form carbon monoxide, which is toxic.Acids, bases, and organic and inorganic compounds all react with oxidizing agents to form condensation products, as well as other products, such as aqueous solutions, gaseous solutions, and solid compounds. Sometimes these products are referred to as fuel.When the oxidation reaction occurs, a chemical reaction occurs between the oxygen and the chemicals being attacked. The reaction makes the organic compound more soluble and weakens it. As a result, the polymer will break down and decompose. Other examples of oxidation reactions include the formation of gases, the formation of oxides, and the formation of solids.