Which one of the following statements is incorrect? Why?

A. “Oxygen (O2) is a strong oxidant (oxidizing agent).”
B. “Oxygen (O2) is an active oxidant (oxidizing agent).”

To determine which statement is incorrect, we can evaluate the properties of oxygen as an oxidizing agent.

Oxidizing agents are substances that have a tendency to accept electrons from other substances, causing oxidation. They are often involved in reactions where they gain electrons, are reduced, and cause another substance to be oxidized.

Statement A says that "Oxygen (O2) is a strong oxidant (oxidizing agent)." This statement is correct because, in many chemical reactions, oxygen readily accepts electrons from other substances, leading to oxidation. Oxygen is known for its ability to support combustion, which is an example of its role as an oxidizing agent.

Statement B says that "Oxygen (O2) is an active oxidant (oxidizing agent)." This statement is incorrect. The incorrect term used here is "active." The term "active" does not accurately describe the oxidizing properties of oxygen. While oxygen is indeed an oxidizing agent, the use of the term "active" may imply a higher level of reactivity or strength than what is generally associated with oxygen's oxidizing abilities.

Therefore, the incorrect statement is B, "Oxygen (O2) is an active oxidant (oxidizing agent)."