Identify oxidation.
A)increase in oxidation number
B)loss of electrons
C)gain of electrons
D)decrease in oxidation number
E)both A and B

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Oxidation is defined as the increase in oxidation number or the loss of electrons. Both of these options are given in choice E, making it the best answer. Choice A is only partially correct, as oxidation can also involve a decrease in oxidation number in certain scenarios such as reduction-oxidation reactions. Choice B does not encompass the entirety of what oxidation entails, as it only describes one aspect of it. Choice C is actually describing reduction, which is the opposite of oxidation. Choice D is also only partially correct, as stated above.

Identify Oxidation