Grade 11 Chemistry - Redox Reactions

Vocabulary flashcards covering oxidation-reduction concepts, oxidants, reductants, memory rules, and reaction examples based on Grade 11 Chemistry notes.

Redox reaction

A chemical reaction in which electrons are transferred from one chemical species to another.

Oxidation

The loss of electrons during a chemical reaction.

Reduction

The gain of electrons during a chemical reaction.

OIL RIG

A memory rule standing for Oxidation Is Loss, Reduction Is Gain.

Reductant

A species that gives (loses) electrons, is oxidized, and causes another species to be reduced.

Oxidant

A species that captures (gains) electrons, is reduced, and causes another species to be oxidized.

Oxidation half-reaction of Magnesium

The half-reaction $Mg(s) \rightarrow Mg^{2+}(aq) + 2e$, where $Mg$ loses $2$ electrons, is oxidized, and acts as the reductant.