Explain the following in terms of gain or loss of oxygen with two examples each.

(a) Oxidation

(b) Reduction

Answer

1. Addition of Oxygen to a Substance is called Oxidation.

That is, gain of Oxygen is called Oxidation.

For example,

1. 2Cu + O ₂   →  2CuO

In the above reaction, Oxygen is being added to Copper, hence it gets oxidised to CuO.

2. C + O ₂  →  CO ₂

In the above reaction, Oxygen is being added to Carbon, hence it gets oxidised to CO ₂ .

1. Removal of Oxygen from a substance is called Reduction.

That is, loss of Oxygen is called Reduction.

For example,

1. CuO + H ₂   →  Cu + H ₂ O

Oxygen is removed from Copper in the reaction, therefore reduction occurs.

2. Fe ₃ O ₄ + 4H ₂   →  3Fe + 4H ₂ O

Oxygen is removed from Iron in the reaction, therefore reduction occurs.