Oxidation And Reduction Flashcards
What are oxidation numbers?
The charge that an atom appears to have when the electrons are distributed according to certain rules
What is oxidation?
The loss of electrons
What is reduction?
Gain of electrons
What is an oxidising agent?
A substance that allows oxidation to happen by gaining electrons itself
What is a reducing agent?
A substance that allows reduction to happen by losing electrons itself
What is an electrolyte?
A substance that conducts electricity when dissolved in water or when molten
What is electrolysis?
The breaking up of a substance due to the passage of an electric current through it in aqueous solution or when molten
What is oxidation in terms of oxidation number?
Increase in oxidation number
What is reduction in terms of oxidation number?
Decrease in oxidation number