An oxidation-reduction (redox) reaction is a type of chemical reaction in which electrons are transferred between two or more reactants. One reactant will undergo oxidation, losing electrons, while the other undergoes reduction, gaining electrons.
The purpose of a redox reaction is to transfer energy from one substance to another. The substance that undergoes oxidation releases energy, while the substance that undergoes reduction gains energy.
In a redox reaction, oxidation can be identified by an increase in the oxidation state of an atom, while reduction is identified by a decrease in the oxidation state. Another way to identify oxidation and reduction is by tracking the transfer of electrons.
There are two main types of redox reactions: oxidation-reduction and reduction-oxidation. In an oxidation-reduction reaction, electrons are transferred from one reactant to another. In a reduction-oxidation reaction, the reverse occurs, with electrons being transferred from one reactant to another.
Redox reactions are essential in many everyday processes, such as photosynthesis, respiration, and digestion. They also play a crucial role in energy production, metal extraction, and many industrial processes. In addition, redox reactions are used in batteries, fuel cells, and other forms of energy storage.