Redoxreakció

Redoxreakció is a chemical reaction involving the transfer of electrons between chemical species. These reactions are characterized by changes in oxidation states of the atoms involved. Oxidation is defined as the loss of electrons or an increase in oxidation state, while reduction is defined as the gain of electrons or a decrease in oxidation state. These two processes always occur simultaneously in a redox reaction; one species is oxidized and another is reduced.

The term redox is a portmanteau of "reduction" and "oxidation." In a redox reaction, an oxidizing agent accepts electrons and is reduced, while a reducing agent donates electrons and is oxidized. For example, the reaction between sodium and chlorine to form sodium chloride is a classic redox reaction. Sodium loses an electron to become a positively charged sodium ion (Na+), while chlorine gains an electron to become a negatively charged chloride ion (Cl-). Sodium is oxidized, and chlorine is reduced. The sodium acts as the reducing agent, and chlorine acts as the oxidizing agent.

Redox reactions are fundamental to many natural and industrial processes. They are crucial in biological systems, such as cellular respiration and photosynthesis, where energy is transferred through electron transport chains. Many industrial processes, including the production of metals, the refining of petroleum, and the generation of electricity in batteries and fuel cells, rely heavily on redox chemistry. Understanding redox reactions is essential for comprehending chemical transformations and designing new chemical technologies.