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Which of these define(s) oxidation process? i. Oxidation is the addition of oxygen and addition of hydrogen ii. Oxidation is the loss of electrons and increase in oxidation number iii. Oxidation is the gain of electrons and increase in oxidation number iv. Oxidation is the loss of electrons and decrease in oxidation number
Accepted Answer
The correct definition of oxidation is:
II. Oxidation is the loss of electrons and increase in oxidation number.
Here's why:
Oxidation involves the loss of electrons: When an atom or ion loses electrons, it becomes more positively charged, hence the increase in oxidation number.
Oxygen is not always involved: While the addition of oxygen was historically used to define oxidation, it's not the only way. Reactions like the loss of hydrogen from a molecule also qualify as oxidation.
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