Definition

A substance that causes another substance to be reduced in a chemical reaction, often by donating electrons.

Example

In the reaction, hydrogen acts as a reductant, helping to convert metal oxides into pure metals.

Conversation

Have you heard about the role of a reductant in chemical reactions?

Yeah, it’s interesting how it donates electrons to other substances.

Exactly! It’s fascinating how reducing agents work in different processes.

I know, right? They really play a crucial role in chemistry.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Reductant → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "ducere" (meaning to lead). The word refers to a substance that leads to a reduction in another substance, often in a chemical reaction.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'leads again' to a reduction — 're-' means again, and 'ducere' means to lead, which helps you remember that a reductant causes a decrease in another substance.

Visually Confused Words