oxidize

Oxidize refers to a chemical process in which an element, compound, or ion loses electrons or increases its oxidation state. Although the term historically described reactions with oxygen to form oxides, oxidation can occur with other electron acceptors as part of redox chemistry. In a redox reaction, the oxidized species is paired with a reducing agent that donates electrons.

Oxidation numbers provide a bookkeeping system: an increase in oxidation state denotes oxidation, while decrease denotes reduction. The species that causes oxidation is the oxidizing agent; the species that is oxidized is the reducing agent.

Common examples include the rusting of iron (iron reacting with oxygen and water to form hydrated iron(III) oxide), and the combustion of hydrocarbons such as methane with oxygen to yield carbon dioxide and water. Oxidation of organic molecules is a central step in metabolism and energy production, while metal oxidation leads to corrosion.

Context and applications: in chemistry, materials science, and biology, oxidation and related redox reactions are studied to understand reactivity, corrosion resistance, and energy flow. Practical considerations include protective coatings, antioxidants to mitigate oxidative damage, and electrochemical devices such as batteries and fuel cells.