Which best describes the oxidizing agent in this reaction? cl2(aq) + 2br(aq) 2cl(aq) + br2(aq) bromine (br) is the oxidizing agent because it gains an electron. bromine (br) is the oxidizing agent because it loses an electron. chlorine (cl) is the oxidizing agent because it gains an electron. chlorine (cl) is the oxidizing agent because it loses an electron

            Chlorine (Cl) is the oxidizing agent because it gains an electron.

Explanation:
                   Reaction is as follow,

                     Cl₂ (aq)  +  2 Br⁻ (aq)    →    2Cl(aq)  +  Br₂ (aq)

Oxidation Reaction:

                                    2 Br⁻     →     Br₂  +  2 e⁻

Two atoms of Br⁻ (Bromide) looses two electrons to form Br₂ molecule. Hence it is oxidized and is acting as reducing agent.

Reduction Reaction:

                                   Cl₂  +  2 e⁻    →     2 Cl⁻

One molecule of Cl₂ gains two electrons to form two chloride ions (Cl⁻). Therefore, it is reduced and has oxidized Br⁻, Hence, acting as a oxidizing agent.