Oksidize

Oksidize, or oxidize, is a chemical process defined as the loss of electrons by a substance or an increase in its oxidation state. The term originates from oxidation with oxygen, but in modern chemistry oxidation includes reactions not involving molecular oxygen as well. In redox reactions, oxidation is paired with reduction: when one substance is oxidized, another is reduced. Mechanistically, oxidation can involve transfer of electrons to an oxidant or to a non-oxygen species. Common oxidants include O2, H2O2, permanganate, and dichromate, while numerous catalysts enable organic oxidations such as converting alcohols to carbonyl compounds or carboxylic acids. Oxidation states are a formal accounting method for electron bookkeeping.

Natural examples include rusting of iron, where iron reacts with oxygen and water to form iron oxides. Biologically, oxidation is a central step in metabolism: glucose is oxidized to CO2 and water, coupled to the production of ATP via electron carriers.

Applications span corrosion prevention, electrochemistry (batteries and fuel cells), organic synthesis, and environmental treatment through oxidative processes. Safety considerations center on the reactive and sometimes exothermic nature of oxidants, which can pose fire or chemical burn hazards.

See also: redox, oxidation state, oxidant, reduction, oxidation-reduction reaction.