In redox reactions, electrons are transferred between reactants.
Redox reactions , a simplified name for reduction-oxidation reactions , are those chemical reactions that lead to the transfer of electrons between reactants, altering the oxidation state . In this way, one element releases electrons that another element accepts.
That element that provides the electrons is called the reducing agent . This is the element that is oxidized within the framework of the redox reaction. The element that receives the electrons, for its part, is called the oxidizing agent . This agent is reduced since it minimizes its oxidation state.
Changes in oxidation state
Redox reactions are processes that lead to the modification of the oxidation state of compounds. Reduction involves capturing electrons and reducing the oxidation state, while oxidation is just the opposite (the element gives up electrons and increases its oxidation state).
It is important to note that both processes develop together: whenever one element gives up electrons and is oxidized, there is another that receives them and is reduced.
Changes in oxidation state are a consequence of redox reactions.
Characteristics of redox reactions
In addition to all of the above, it is important that we know other important aspects related to redox reactions, among which the following stand out:
-In these processes, it must be emphasized that both oxidation and reduction occur absolutely simultaneously. However, despite this, it must be taken into account that the equation is balanced because what are called semi-reactions appear.
-The half reactions can be both oxidation and reduction. In the former, the substance that is going to be oxidized takes center stage and in the latter, the substance that is already oxidized takes center stage.
-The oxidation half-reaction is also known as SRO
-The reduction half-reaction is also called SRR.
-It must be taken into account that the balance between these half-reactions can be achieved in two different ways. The first would be by proceeding to equalize what the central atoms are and the second, on the other hand, consists of adding water molecules, in equal numbers to the excess oxygens that exist.
-Redox reactions can be carried out in both acidic and basic media.
-Examples of redox reactions are the obtaining of metals from minerals, the reaction that takes place both in certain batteries and in batteries, the combustion of hydrocarbons...But the process of breathing that any person carries out.
oxidation number
The oxidation number is known as the number of electrons that, when forming a bond, an atom gains or loses. In the reduction reaction, the oxidation number falls (the element adds electrons), while in the oxidation reaction it increases (the element gives up electrons).
The management of redox reactions is very relevant in various industrial areas. Through these changes in the compounds, it is possible to take measures to minimize the corrosion of an element or to obtain certain products from the reduction of a mineral.