In the following redox reaction, which compound is acting as a reducing agent ? N2H4 + 2H2O2-> N2+ 4H2O

In the redox reaction N2H4 + 2H2O2 → N2 + 4H2O, a reducing agent is the substance that undergoes oxidation by losing electrons or losing hydrogen [1]. In this specific reaction, the oxidation state of nitrogen in hydrazine (N2H4) increases from -2 to 0 as it forms nitrogen gas (N2), indicating that nitrogen is oxidized [1]. Conversely, the oxygen in hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is reduced as its oxidation state decreases from -1 to -2 in water (H2O). Since N2H4 provides the electrons for the reduction of H2O2 and itself undergoes oxidation, it acts as the reducing agent [1]. Hydrogen peroxide acts as the oxidizing agent in this process. Therefore, N2H4 is the compound acting as the reducing agent.

Sources

1. [1] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 1: Chemical Reactions and Equations > CuO +H Cu+H O 2 2 → Heat (1.29) > p. 12