Oxidation and reduction concepts
Introduction to Oxidation and Reduction Concepts
In the study of chemistry, the concepts of oxidation and reduction are fundamental to understanding a wide range of chemical processes. Often referred to collectively as redox reactions, these processes are central to both inorganic and organic chemistry. Oxidation is defined as the loss of electrons, whereas reduction involves the gain of electrons. This electron transfer is not just a theoretical concept; it plays a critical role in numerous reactions, from combustion to metabolism in living organisms.