The chemical species present process electron loss throughout a response experiences oxidation. This course of ends in a rise within the oxidation state of the species. A traditional instance is the response of metallic sodium with chlorine fuel, the place sodium atoms lose electrons to type sodium ions, thus present process oxidation whereas chlorine atoms achieve these electrons to type chloride ions.
Oxidation is a elementary course of in quite a few pure and industrial settings. It performs an important function in power manufacturing, akin to in combustion and mobile respiration. Moreover, it’s central to many industrial processes, together with steel refining and the manufacturing of assorted chemical substances. Traditionally, understanding this phenomenon has allowed for vital developments in various fields akin to metallurgy and supplies science.