Redox Reaction in Terms of Gain and Loss of Oxygen

Oxidation and Reduction in Terms of Oxygen Transfer

  1. Oxidation is the process of gaining oxygen.
  2. Reduction is the process of losing oxygen.
  3. For example, in the extraction of iron from its ore:
    1. Iron(III) oxide loses oxygen. Iron(III) oxide is reduced to iron. This is a reduction process.
    2. Carbon monoxide gains oxygen. Carbon monoxide is oxidised to become carbon dioxide. This is an oxidising process.

Example:

Combustion of Magnesium in Air

  • Magnesium is oxidised to become magnesium oxide.
Displacement of copper(II) oxide by Carbon
  • Copper(II) oxide is reduced to become copper metal
  • Carbon is oxidised to become carbon dioxide.

Displacement of lead(II) oxide by Zinc

  • Zinc is oxidised to become zinc oxide.
  • Lead(II) oxide is reduced to become lead metal

Reaction between Magnesium and Steam

  • Water is reduced to become hydrogen gas.
  • Magnesium is oxidised to become magnesium oxide.

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