Question

What do you understand by redox reactions? Explain oxidation and reduction in terms of loss or gain of electrons.

Answer 1

Transfer of electron(s) is involved in the formation of an electrovalent bond. The electropositive atom undergoes oxidation, while the electronegative atom undergoes reduction. This is known as a redox process.

Oxidation: In the electronic concept, oxidation is a process in which an atom or ion loses electron(s).

Zn → Zn²⁺ + 2e^-

Reduction: In the electronic concept, the reduction is a process in which an atom or ion accepts electron(s).

Cu²⁺ + 2e^-→ Cu