Question

If an element in a chemical reaction loses electrons, which of the following describes what happens to that element?

A. It is combusted
B. It is reduced
C. It is rusted
D. It is oxidized

Answer 1

Answer : The correct option is, (D) it is oxidized.

Explanation :

On the basis of electrons, there are two types of reactions :

(1) Oxidation reaction (2) Reduction reaction

Oxidation reaction : When an element loses electrons in a chemical reaction then that element gets oxidized in the chemical reaction and its oxidation number increases.

Reduction reaction : When an element gains electrons in a chemical reaction then that element gets reduced in the chemical reaction and its oxidation number decreases.

Hence, the correct answer is (D).