Oxidation
ok-sih-DAY-shuhn
/ˌɒksɪˈdeɪʃən/
The loss of electrons by a molecule, atom, or ion during a chemical reaction, often involving the gain of oxygen or loss of hydrogen.
Originally, 'oxidation' meant reaction with oxygen. Now, it's broadly defined as the loss of electrons, even without oxygen present.
The story behind the word. The term 'oxidation' was coined by Antoine Lavoisier in the late 18th century, derived from 'oxide,' which he named from the Greek 'oxys' (sharp, acid) and 'genes' (producing). Lavoisier believed oxygen was essential for forming acids, and thus 'oxidation' originally referred to reactions involving oxygen. Modern chemistry broadened the definition to the loss of electrons, even without oxygen, but the name stuck.
Word relationships
- Rusting: A specific type of oxidation involving iron and oxygen.
- Corrosion: The process of gradual destruction of materials by chemical reaction, often involving oxidation.
- Reduction: The gain of electrons by a molecule, atom, or ion during a chemical reaction.
Commonly confused with
- Reduction: 'Oxidation' is the loss of electrons; 'reduction' is the gain of electrons. They always occur together in a redox reaction.
Word family
- oxidize (verb): To undergo or cause to undergo oxidation.
- oxidizing (adjective): Causing oxidation.
- oxidant (noun): A substance that causes oxidation.
Collocations
- redox oxidation
- biological oxidation
- oxidation state
- oxidation reaction
Example sentences
- "The rusting of iron is a classic example of oxidation, where iron atoms lose electrons to oxygen." Rusting is an example of oxidation.
- "Cellular respiration involves a series of oxidation reactions to release energy from glucose." Oxidation in biological systems.
Memory hook
Remember 'OIL RIG': Oxidation Is Loss (of electrons), Reduction Is Gain (of electrons). OIL: Oxidation Is Loss
When not to use
Do not use 'oxidation' to describe a process that involves the gain of electrons; that is 'reduction'.
Fun facts
- Oxidation and reduction always occur simultaneously in a 'redox' reaction.
- Many biological processes, including energy production in cells and the breakdown of toxins, rely on controlled oxidation-reduction reactions.
Explore more words
oxidize, antioxidant, combustion, caramelization, metabolism, caramelize
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