CuO + C → Cu + CO

In the given reaction, which of the following is the oxidising agent?

CuO

The correct answer is option 1. CuO.

In the given reaction:

\[ \text{CuO + C → Cu + CO} \]

The species that undergoes oxidation is the reducing agent, and the species that undergoes reduction is the oxidizing agent. Let's analyze the oxidation states:

\[ \begin{align*} \text{CuO} & : \text{ Copper is in the +2 oxidation state.} \\
\text{C} & : \text{ Carbon is in the +2 oxidation state.} \\
\text{Cu} & : \text{ Copper is in the 0 oxidation state.} \\
\text{CO} & : \text{ Carbon is in the +2 oxidation state.} \end{align*} \]