ZnO + C → Zn + CO In the above reaction, carbon acts as a/an:

Explanation:

The oxidation number of carbon changes from 0 to +2, which means carbon is oxidized. At the same time, the oxidation number of zinc changes from +2 to 0 so zinc is reduced.

Any species that undergoes oxidation and reduces other species is a reducing agent.

Hence carbon acts as a reducing agent.

Final Answer:

Option B is correct i.e : reducing agent