Here's a breakdown:
* Oxidation: A chemical process involving the loss of electrons by a molecule, atom, or ion.
* Oxygen: A very reactive element that readily accepts electrons.
When oxygen reacts with an element, it gains electrons (gets reduced) while the element loses electrons (gets oxidized). This is why the process is called oxidation.
Example:
The burning of iron in air is a classic example of oxidation. Iron reacts with oxygen to form iron oxide (rust):
* 4Fe + 3O₂ → 2Fe₂O₃
In this reaction, iron loses electrons to oxygen, resulting in the formation of iron oxide (rust).
