ChemTalk

Reduction and Oxidation Reactions

Oxidation states keep track of how many electrons are associated with a particular atom relative to its neutral form. Chemical reactions can change the oxidation state of an atom and these reactions are known as reduction and oxidation reactions, or redox reactions. Redox reactions are the foundation of electrochemistry, which gives rise to batteries and energy storage, protective coatings for metals and other materials, and new chemical transformations that would not otherwise be possible.