Question

Reduction is defined as the addition of ________. In biological systems, these are usually accompanied by protons in a process called ________.

A) Electrons; Hydrolysis
B) Protons; Dehydration
C) Neutrons; Decarboxylation
D) Photons; Hydration

Answer 1

Reduction in biological systems refers to the addition of electrons, usually accompanied by protons, in a process known as an oxidation-reduction or redox reaction. The correct answer is A) Electrons; Hydrolysis, which signifies the gain of electrons and often the gain of hydrogen in a biological context.

Step-by-step explanation:

Reduction is defined as the addition of electrons. In biological systems, these are usually accompanied by protons in a process called oxidation-reduction reaction (also called a redox reaction). The correct answer to your question is A) Electrons; Hydrolysis.

In metabolic reactions, the addition of a proton (H+) and an electron (e-) generally represents a reduction process. When a substance gains one or more electrons, it is said to be reduced. This is often accompanied by the gain of hydrogen. For instance, reduction occurs during the conversion of acetaldehyde into ethanol, where hydrogen atoms are added to acetaldehyde, indicating that it has been reduced according to the reaction CH3CHO + H2 → CH3CH2OH.