Iron ore is reduced in a blast furnace. Which substance acts as the reducing agent?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Carbon monoxide
- Step 1: Carbon burns to make carbon monoxide.
- Step 2: Carbon monoxide removes oxygen from iron(III) oxide, so it is the reducing agent.
Answer
Carbon monoxide.
Why not the others: Oxygen: this is an oxidising agent. Calcium carbonate: this is used to remove impurities. Water: this is not the reducing agent.
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