Question

In thermite process, what is the reducing agent used?

(a) C

(b) Zn

(c) Na

(d) Al

I got this question by my college professor while I was bunking the class.

This intriguing question comes from Uses of Aluminium, Copper, Zinc and Iron topic in chapter General Principles and Processes of Isolation of Elements of Chemistry – Class 12

Answer 1

Right choice is (d) Al

To explain I would say: Thermite process proceeds via a thermite reaction. Thermite reaction involves the oxidation of the metal aluminium by the oxide of another metal, usually iron oxide. In this reaction, since aluminium is the element being oxidised, it acts as a reducing agent.