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jacklwk
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according to my biology textbook, it says that animals release energy by oxidation of food, can anybody tell me that what is oxidation?
Oxidation is simply an increase in oxidation number. More practically, it is the loss of one or more electrons in a reaction. When the body converts complex molecules into simple ones (such as the oxidation of glucose), it often oxidizes those molecules.jacklwk said:according to my biology textbook, it says that animals release energy by oxidation of food, can anybody tell me that what is oxidation?
Oxidation is a chemical reaction in which a substance loses electrons, resulting in a change in its oxidation state. This process often involves the addition of oxygen or the removal of hydrogen.
Oxidation can occur through a variety of mechanisms, including through the presence of oxygen, exposure to heat, or a reaction with a strong oxidizing agent. It can also occur naturally through the process of aging or decay.
The effects of oxidation can vary depending on the substance being oxidized. In some cases, it can lead to the degradation or breakdown of the substance. In other cases, it can result in the formation of new compounds or changes in physical properties such as color or texture.
Some common examples of oxidation include rusting of iron, browning of cut apples, and the burning of fuels. Other examples include the fermentation of wine and the conversion of fats into soap.
Oxidation can be prevented by storing substances in airtight containers, reducing exposure to oxygen and heat, and using antioxidants which can inhibit the process. In some cases, oxidation can also be reversed through chemical reactions or by removing the oxidized layer.