Oxidation is a word from the scope of chemistry that means the electron loss, even if it is not caused by oxygen.
It also indicates the process of oxidizing, that is, of combining an element with oxygen, transforming it into an oxide. The element responsible for oxidation is recognized as an oxidizer.
When a chemical compound loses electrons (oxidizes), its oxidation number (NOX) increases.
One of the most important phenomena of oxidation is combustion, present in biological processes such as fermentation and respiration, where energy is released.
Within the scope of biochemistry, oxidation occurs to fatty acids, glucose, amino acids, etc.
Oxidation and reduction
Oxidation is the reverse process of reduction. The oxidizing agent is the one that causes oxidation and undergoes reduction, while the reducing agent causes reduction and undergoes oxidation.
In oxidation, the element loses electrons and the oxidation number increases. On reduction, the element gains electrons and the oxidation number decreases.
iron oxidation
Rust on some objects is caused by the oxidation of iron. In these cases, iron loses electrons and oxygen gains electrons.
black oxidation
Black oxidation is a reaction in which the object in question has a black finish and is more resistant to corrosion, preventing the formation of rust. It is widely used in tools, parts (such as screws and springs), etc.
There are black oxidation processes: hot (approximately 135-140 ºC) and cold (room temperature).
mild oxidation
Mild oxidation is one of four types of organic oxidation, along with ozonolysis, energy oxidation and combustion.
One of the best known examples of mild oxidation is that of alkene. In this case, Baeyer's reagent (named after a famous German chemist), which is a potassium permanganate solution, is used to differentiate alkenes and cyclans.
Also read the meaning of combustion.
