Redox Reactions

Redox

Refers to reduction-oxidation reactions where electrons are transferred between a reducing agent and an oxidizing agent.

Oxidation

The loss of electrons, an increase in oxidation state, addition of oxygen, or removal of hydrogen.

Reduction

The gain of electrons, a decrease in oxidation state, removal of oxygen, or addition of hydrogen.

Oxidizing Agent (Oxidant)

The species that accepts electrons and undergoes reduction while causing another species to be oxidized.

Reducing Agent (Reductant)

The species that donates electrons and undergoes oxidation while causing another species to be reduced.

Oxidation Number

A value assigned to an element in a compound that represents the number of electrons lost or gained.

KOHES Method

A method for balancing half-equations involving Key atoms, Oxygen, Hydrogen, Electrons, and State symbols.

Monatomic Ions

Ions composed of a single atom that take on an oxidation state equal to their charge.

Acidified Permanganate Ion

$MnO_4^-$ that reduces and changes oxidation states from +7 to +2, with a color change from purple to colorless.

Fingerprint for Oxidation

The oxidation state increases in oxidation, indicating the substance is oxidized.

Fingerprint for Reduction

The oxidation state decreases in reduction, indicating the substance is reduced.