What is oxidation and how does it relate to animal energy release?

[jacklwk]

according to my biology textbook, it says that animals release energy by oxidation of food, can anybody tell me that what is oxidation?

 

[geoffjb]

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.

More on oxidation:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Redox

More on respiration:
http://www.3rd1000.com/chem301/chem302x.htm
http://www.chemsoc.org/networks/learnnet/cfb/respiration.htm

 

[Blueshift5]

Oxidation is a chemical reaction in which a substance combines with oxygen. In the context of animal energy release, oxidation refers to the process of breaking down food molecules, such as glucose, through a series of chemical reactions that involve the transfer of electrons. This transfer of electrons releases energy, which is then used by the body for various functions such as movement, growth, and maintaining body temperature.

In simpler terms, oxidation is like the burning of fuel in a car engine. Just as fuel is broken down and burned to release energy in a car, food is broken down and oxidized in the body to release energy for animals. This process is essential for animals to carry out their daily activities and maintain their bodily functions.

I hope this explanation helps to clarify what oxidation is and how it relates to animal energy release. If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask.