oxidation
UK: ˌɒksɪˈdeɪʃən | US: ˌɑːksɪˈdeɪʃən
n. the process of a substance combining with oxygen, resulting in a chemical change (e.g., rusting or burning).
n. (chemistry) the loss of electrons by an atom, ion, or molecule during a reaction.
The word "oxidation" originates from the French "oxidation" (1787), derived from "oxide" (<oxygen> + <ide>, a suffix for chemical compounds). The root "oxid" traces back to "oxygen," coined in 1777 by Antoine Lavoisier from Greek "oxys" (sharp, acid) and "gennan" (to generate), reflecting oxygen's role in forming acids. The suffix "-ation" signifies the process, emphasizing the chemical transformation involving oxygen. Historically, oxidation was first linked to reactions with oxygen but later expanded to electron-loss reactions in modern chemistry.
Iron undergoes oxidation when exposed to moisture, forming rust.
The oxidation of glucose releases energy in cellular respiration.
Antioxidants slow down oxidation in food, preventing spoilage.
Copper's green patina results from natural oxidation over time.
Chemists balance oxidation and reduction reactions in redox processes.