Q21.1P - Chemistry: Molecular Nature Of Matter And Change

Question

Define oxidation and reduction in terms of electron transfer and change in oxidation number.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The oxidation number of an atom grows as it loses electrons during oxidation, while the oxidation number decreases as it gets electrons during reduction.

Step 1: Define oxidation and reduction in terms of electron transfer

The loss of an electron is referred to as oxidation, while the gain of an electron is referred to as reduction. When an atom loses electrons during oxidation, its oxidation number grows, but when it gains electrons during reduction, the oxidation number decreases.

Step 2: Determining the change in oxidation number

The oxidation number of an atom grows as it loses electrons during oxidation, while the oxidation number decreases as it gets electrons during reduction.