For the Following Reaction Involving the Smelting of Iron Ore

Multiple Choice

For the following reaction involving the smelting of iron ore, the iron (III) oxide in the starting materials __________ .
2 Fe₂O_3(s) + 3 C_(s)  4 Fe_(l) + 3 CO_{2 (g)}

A) was formed by oxidation
B) was formed by reduction
C) is acting as an oxidant
D) is acting as a reductant
E) None of the above.