The substance that gains electrons. It causes the other substance to be oxidized (by "stealing" its electrons).
"Oxidative stress" occurs when unstable molecules called free radicals damage cells. This is why diets rich in antioxidants —substances that inhibit oxidation—are considered healthy. oxidization
Preventing the oxidation of metals (rust) saves billions of dollars in infrastructure costs annually. The substance that gains electrons
It is important to note that oxidation never happens in isolation. It is always paired with , which is the gain of electrons. Together, these are known as redox reactions . You can remember this using the mnemonic OIL RIG : O xidation I s L oss (of electrons) R eduction I s G ain (of electrons) Common Examples of Oxidation This is why diets rich in antioxidants —substances
The substance that loses electrons. It causes the other substance to be reduced (by "donating" electrons to it). Why It Matters Understanding oxidation is critical for several fields:
At the subatomic level, oxidation is about the movement of charge. When a substance undergoes oxidation, it gives up negative charge (electrons). Because electrons are lost, the overall charge of the atom or molecule becomes more positive.