ABSTRACT
Oxidation is a chemical reaction that involves the transfer of electrons. Specifically, it means the side that gives away electrons. Oxidation involves the loss of electrons or hydrogen or gain of oxygen or increase in oxidation state. Any chemical reaction, in which the oxidation numbers (oxidation states) of the atoms are increased is termed as an oxidation reaction. Oxidation-reduction reactions (or redox) reactions are chemical reactions that involve a transfer of electrons between two species. Oxidation-reduction reactions are quite vital for many biochemical reactions and industrial processes. The electron transfer system in cells and oxidation of glucose in the human body are some well known examples of redox reactions. Redox reactions are used to reduce ores to obtain metals, to produce electrochemical cells, to convert ammonia into nitric acid for fertilizers, to coat compact discs, etc.
