Redox Reactions - Summary

Oxidation and Reduction

in short,

REDOX REACTION: when electrons are transfered, and there are changes in oxidation states. both reduction and oxidation occuring at the same time.
such reactions are best expressed in ionic equations.

OXIDATION: the gain of oxygen or the loss of hydrogen.
it also involves the loss of electrons or an increase in oxidation state.

OXIDISING AGENT: a substance which helps oxidation to occur;
like potassium manganate (VII) which helps oxidation by giving oxygen or gaining electrons.

REDUCTION: the loss of oxygen or the gain of hydrogen.
it also involves the gain of electrons or a decrease in oxidation state.

REDUCING AGENT: a substances which helps reduction to occurl
like carbon, hydrogen, carbon monoxide which helps reduction by taking oxygen and giving electrons.

chill-