Oxidation-reduction reaction

Oxidation-Reduction Reaction

An oxidation-reduction reaction, often referred to as a redox reaction, is a type of chemical reaction that involves a transfer of electrons between two chemical species. The term 'redox' is a portmanteau of 'reduction' and 'oxidation'.

Overview

In a redox reaction, the species that loses electrons is said to be oxidized and the one that gains electrons is said to be reduced. This can be remembered using the mnemonic OIL RIG, which stands for "Oxidation Is Loss, Reduction Is Gain".

Oxidation

Oxidation is a process that involves the loss of electrons or an increase in oxidation state by a molecule, atom, or ion. Oxidation reactions are commonly associated with the reaction of oxygen to form an oxide, but they also can involve other reactants. For example, in the reaction of iron with oxygen to form iron(III) oxide, iron is oxidized.

Reduction

Reduction is a process that involves the gain of electrons or a decrease in oxidation state by a molecule, atom, or ion. An example of a reduction is the reaction of hydrogen and fluorine to form hydrogen fluoride, in which hydrogen is reduced.

Redox Reactions in Biology

Redox reactions play a crucial role in biology, particularly in energy production. The process of cellular respiration, which is the primary method used by cells to convert glucose into energy, involves a series of redox reactions.

Redox Reactions in Industry

Redox reactions are also widely used in industrial processes. For example, they are involved in the production of ammonia in the Haber process, and in the extraction of metals from their ores.

See Also

• Chemical reaction
• Oxidation state
• Electron transfer
• Cellular respiration
• Haber process