Redox Reaction Chemistry Example 1

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Example 1

easy
Define a redox reaction and explain the relationship between oxidation and reduction.

Solution

  1. 1
    A redox (reduction-oxidation) reaction involves the transfer of electrons between species.
  2. 2
    Oxidation is the loss of electrons (increase in oxidation number). Reduction is the gain of electrons (decrease in oxidation number).
  3. 3
    Oxidation and reduction always occur together — one species cannot lose electrons unless another gains them. Remember: OIL RIG (Oxidation Is Loss, Reduction Is Gain).

Answer

Redox: electron transfer. Oxidation = loss, Reduction = gain.\text{Redox: electron transfer. Oxidation = loss, Reduction = gain.}
Redox reactions are one of the most important classes of chemical reactions. They include combustion, corrosion, photosynthesis, respiration, and all electrochemical processes (batteries, electrolysis).

About Redox Reaction

A chemical reaction in which electrons are transferred from one substance (the reducing agent, which is oxidized) to another (the oxidizing agent, which is reduced).

Learn more about Redox Reaction →

More Redox Reaction Examples

Example 2 medium

In the reaction [formula], identify the oxidizing agent and the reducing agent.

Example 3 medium

Determine whether the following reaction is a redox reaction: [formula]. Justify your answer.

Example 4 hard

Balance the following redox reaction in acidic solution using the half-reaction method: [formula].

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