Oksidakseen

Oksidakseen is a Finnish word that translates to "oxidation" in English. In chemistry, oxidation refers to a chemical reaction that involves the loss of electrons from a molecule, atom, or ion. This loss of electrons results in an increase in the oxidation state of the species undergoing oxidation. A common way to remember this is the mnemonic "LEO the lion says GER," which stands for Loss of Electrons is Oxidation, Gain of Electrons is Reduction.

Oxidation reactions are often paired with reduction reactions, forming a redox reaction. During oxidation, the substance that is oxidized is said to be the reducing agent, as it causes the reduction of another substance by donating electrons. Conversely, the substance that accepts electrons is reduced and is called the oxidizing agent.

One of the most familiar examples of oxidation is the rusting of iron. When iron is exposed to oxygen and moisture, it undergoes oxidation, forming iron oxides. Another common example is the browning of fruits like apples when they are cut and exposed to air. This browning is caused by the oxidation of certain compounds within the fruit. In biological systems, cellular respiration is a series of oxidation reactions that release energy from glucose. Combustion, the process of burning, is also a rapid oxidation process.