An oxidizing agent is a substance that gains electrons in a chemical reaction, causing another substance to lose electrons. This process is known as oxidation. Common examples of oxidizing agents include oxygen, chlorine, and potassium permanganate. They play a crucial role in various chemical reactions, including combustion and respiration. In redox reactions, the oxidizing agent is reduced while the reducing agent is oxidized. This means that the oxidizing agent undergoes a decrease in oxidation state. Understanding oxidizing agents is essential in fields like chemistry, biochemistry, and environmental science, where they are involved in processes such as corrosion and water treatment.