Question

In oxidation-reduction reactions (redox reactions), what are reduced during reduction?

1) Electrons, gained
2) Electrons, lost
3) Protons, gained
4) Protons, lost

Answer 1

1. During reduction in oxidation-reduction reactions, substances are reduced through the gain of electrons.

Step-by-step explanation:

In oxidation-reduction reactions (redox reactions), during the process of reduction, substances gain electrons. This is opposite to oxidation, where substances lose electrons. It's important to remember that in redox reactions, the number of electrons lost is always equal to the number of electrons gained.

1. A helpful mnemonic for this concept is OIL RIG, which stands for 'Oxidation Is Loss, Reduction Is Gain' of electrons.

Therefore, when a student asks, "What are reduced during reduction in redox reactions?" the correct answer is:

• Electrons, gained