Chemistry Topic 5: Oxidation and Reduction Reactions

A list of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts related to oxidation and reduction reactions in chemistry.

Oxidation

A process where an atom loses electrons.

Reduction

A process where an atom gains electrons.

Redox

A shorthand term for reduction-oxidation reactions, which involve the transfer of electrons.

LEO the lion goes GER

A mnemonic to remember that Lose Electrons means Oxidation and Gain Electrons means Reduction.

Half-reaction

A part of a reaction that represents either an oxidation or reduction separately.

Spontaneous reaction

A reaction that occurs immediately without the addition of energy once reactants are in contact.

Voltaic cell

A device that spontaneously produces electricity using spontaneous redox reactions.

Salt bridge

A component of a voltaic cell that allows the movement of ions to maintain charge balance.

Electrolytic cell

A device that uses electrical energy to drive a non-spontaneous chemical reaction.

Reducing agent

The substance that loses electrons and is oxidized in a redox reaction.

Oxidizing agent

The substance that gains electrons and is reduced in a redox reaction.

Corrosion

A chemical reaction that typically refers to the oxidation of metals, leading to their deterioration.

Activity series

A list that ranks metals and their ions based on their reactivity.

Electroplating

The process of depositing a metal onto an object by means of an electrolytic cell.

Rechargeable battery

A battery that can be recharged and used repeatedly by reversing the electrochemical reactions.

Spectator ion

An ion that does not take part in the overall reaction and remains in solution.

Oxidation state

The charge of an atom in a compound, which can change during a redox reaction.

Anode

The electrode in a cell where oxidation occurs.

Cathode

The electrode in a cell where reduction occurs.

Chemical reactivity

The tendency of a substance to undergo a chemical reaction.

Tarnishing

The formation of a thin layer of corrosion on metals like silver, often due to oxidation.

Galvanic cell

Another name for a voltaic cell, emphasizing its function in generating electric current.

Cation

A positively charged ion that results from the loss of electrons.

Anion

A negatively charged ion that results from the gain of electrons.