OXIDATION Meaning and
Definition
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Oxidation is a chemical reaction that involves the loss of electrons by an atom, ion, or molecule. It occurs when a substance combines with oxygen, thereby increasing its oxidation state. This process is commonly characterized by the addition of oxygen to a substance or the removal of hydrogen from it.
Oxidation plays a significant role in various natural and industrial processes. It is commonly associated with the rusting of metals, where iron reacts with oxygen in the presence of moisture to form iron oxide. This reaction causes the metal to deteriorate and corrode over time. Additionally, oxidation is crucial in combustion, where organic molecules (such as hydrocarbons) combine with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water, releasing energy in the form of heat and light.
In a broader sense, oxidation can occur without direct involvement of oxygen. This is evident in the reaction between chlorine and hydrogen, where the chlorine atom gains an electron from the hydrogen atom, resulting in hydrogen chloride. The chlorine atom gets reduced in this reaction, while the hydrogen atom undergoes oxidation.
Oxidation reactions are typically accompanied by reduction reactions, forming a redox (reduction-oxidation) pair. Together, they constitute redox reactions, which are fundamental to biological processes, such as respiration and photosynthesis, as well as numerous industrial applications, such as metal plating and the production of chemicals and drugs.
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The act of combining or of causing an element or compound to combine with oxygen.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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The process of converting metals and other substances into oxides.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Etymology of OXIDATION
The word "oxidation" is derived from the Latin term "oxido" which means "to combine with oxygen". The Latin term itself originates from the Greek word "oxys" meaning "acid" or "sharp" and "genos" meaning "producer" or "begetter". The word "oxidation" was first introduced in the late 18th century in the context of chemical reactions involving the combination of a substance with oxygen, or the loss of electrons from a molecule.
Similar spelling words for OXIDATION
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