What is oxidation?

Oxidation is a chemical reaction in which a substance loses electrons. This process can occur through the addition of oxygen or another electronegative element, or through the loss of electrons to another substance.

Examples of oxidation

Some common examples of oxidation include rusting of iron, combustion of fuels, and the browning of fruits and vegetables.

Oxidation in everyday life

Oxidation plays a significant role in our daily lives. For example, the process of rusting in metals is a form of oxidation, and the browning of cut fruits is also a result of oxidation reactions.

Oxidation and reduction

Oxidation is often accompanied by reduction, which is the gain of electrons by a substance. Together, these processes make up redox reactions, or oxidation-reduction reactions.

Importance of oxidation

Oxidation is important in various industrial processes, such as the production of metals, as well as in biological processes, including respiration in living organisms.