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