Question

Distinguish between oxidation and reduction.

Hint:

Remember: Oxidation involves electron loss (increase in oxidation state), while reduction involves electron gain (decrease in oxidation state).

Answer 1

Oxidation refers to the process where an element or compound loses electrons. This leads to an increase in the oxidation state of the element. For example, when iron reacts with oxygen, it forms iron oxide (rust), with iron losing electrons. Reduction is the process where an element or compound gains electrons, leading to a decrease in its oxidation state. For example, in the reaction between copper(II) oxide and hydrogen, copper gains electrons and is reduced to copper metal. - Oxidation is the loss of electrons and an increase in oxidation state.
- Reduction is the gain of electrons and a decrease in oxidation state.