What is the Difference Between Oxidation and Reduction?

The main difference between oxidation and reduction lies in the gain or loss of electrons and the change in the oxidation number of a substance. Here are the key differences between oxidation and reduction:

• Oxidation:
• Involves the loss of electrons by a substance.
• Results in an increase in the oxidation number of the substance.
• Releases energy.
• Occurs in the presence of oxidizing agents, such as ozone, bleach, and peroxide.
• Examples include the rusting of iron and the combustion of hydrocarbons.
• Reduction:
• Involves the gain of electrons by a substance.
• Results in a decrease in the oxidation number of the substance.
• Stores energy.
• Occurs in the presence of reducing agents, such as metals.
• Examples include the formation of iron from its ore and the reduction of oxygen to water during photosynthesis.

In a redox (reduction-oxidation) reaction, both oxidation and reduction occur simultaneously, with one species losing electrons and another species gaining electrons. These reactions are essential for various biological and chemical processes, such as cellular respiration and the extraction of metals from their ores.

Comparative Table: Oxidation vs Reduction

Here is a table summarizing the main differences between oxidation and reduction:

In oxidation, a reactant loses electrons, which results in an increase in its oxidation number. In reduction, a reactant gains electrons, leading to a decrease in its oxidation number. When these two processes occur simultaneously, it is called a redox reaction.