Introduction to Redox reaction (oxidation and reduction)
Oxidation-reduction (Redox reaction) reactions involve the transfer of electrons between substances. They take place simultaneously because if one substance loses electrons, another must gain them. Redox reactions involve two opposing yet complementary processes: OXIDATION AND REDUCTION. For example, all single-replacement reactions are redox reactions. We often come across processes like; Rusting of iron particles, Fading of the colour of the clothes, Burning of combustible substances such as cooking gas, wood, coal, etc. All these processes fall in the category of redox reactions. A large number of industrial processes such as; Electroplating, Extraction of metals like aluminium and sodium, Bleaching of wood pulp, Manufacture of caustic soda, etc. are also based on the redox reactions. Redox reactions also form the basis of electrochemical and electrolytic cells. Electrochemistry is the study of the interchang...