hapetusreduktioentsyymit

Hapetusreduktio, or redox for short, refers to a type of chemical reaction where the oxidation states of atoms are changed. This change happens through the transfer of electrons between chemical species. Oxidation is the loss of electrons by a molecule, atom, or ion, which results in an increase in its oxidation state. Reduction, on the other hand, is the gain of electrons by a molecule, atom, or ion, leading to a decrease in its oxidation state. These two processes always occur simultaneously in a redox reaction; one cannot happen without the other.

In a redox reaction, the species that loses electrons is said to be oxidized and acts as the reducing agent, as it causes the reduction of another species. Conversely, the species that gains electrons is said to be reduced and acts as the oxidizing agent, as it causes the oxidation of another species. Common examples of redox reactions include combustion, corrosion of metals, photosynthesis, and cellular respiration. Understanding redox reactions is fundamental in various fields, including chemistry, biology, and environmental science, as they underpin many natural processes and industrial applications. For instance, batteries operate on the principle of controlled redox reactions to generate electricity.