Chemistry – Chemical reactions - Redox | e-Consult
Chemical reactions - Redox (1 questions)
Login to see all questions.
Click on a question to view the answer
Oxidation and reduction are always simultaneous processes. They occur together in what is known as a redox reaction. Oxidation and reduction are opposite processes; one cannot occur without the other. The substance that loses electrons is oxidized, and the substance that gains electrons is reduced.
| Oxidation | Reduction |
| Loss of electrons | Gain of electrons |
| Increase in oxidation number | Decrease in oxidation number |
| Oxidizing Agent | Reducing Agent |
Example Redox Reaction: The reaction between zinc and hydrochloric acid:
Zn(s) + 2HCl(aq) → ZnCl2(aq) + H2(g)
In this reaction, zinc (Zn) is oxidized (loses electrons) and becomes Zn2+. Hydrogen ions (H+) in hydrochloric acid are reduced (gain electrons) and become hydrogen gas (H2).