Oxidation

noun (uncountable)

/ˌɒksɪˈdeɪʃən/

Oxidation is a chemical process in which an atom, ion, or molecule loses one or more electrons, resulting in an increase in its oxidation state; in broader usage it also refers to the combination of a substance with oxygen. In biological systems, cellular respiration is fundamentally an oxidation process in which glucose is oxidised to yield ATP, CO₂, and water. In environmental science, oxidative weathering of iron-bearing rocks produces the characteristic laterite soils of peninsular India, which are poor in nutrients and relevant to UPSC GS1 soil geography.

✍️ Usage in a UPSC answer

The oxidation of sulphur dioxide to sulphur trioxide in the presence of atmospheric moisture generates dilute sulphuric acid, the primary mechanism behind acid rain that has degraded heritage monuments in Agra and Mathura.

Synonyms

electron losscombustion (in some contexts)rusting (applied)corrosiondehydrogenation

Antonyms

reductiondeoxidationhydrogenation

🌱 Word Family

oxidise/oxidize (verb), oxidant (noun), oxidative (adjective), oxide (noun), antioxidant (noun), oxidiser (noun)

🔡 Root

French oxider = to combine with oxygen; from oxygène (oxygen) + -ation (noun suffix for process)

📜 Etymology

The term entered chemistry via French oxydation, derived from oxygène, which Lavoisier coined in 1779 from Greek oxys (sharp, acid) + gennān (to produce), reflecting his mistaken belief that all acids contain oxygen. The modern electrochemical definition — electron loss — was formalised in the early 20th century as redox theory developed. English adopted oxidation directly from French chemical nomenclature in the late 18th century.

🧠 Memory Hook

OIL RIG — Oxidation Is Loss (of electrons), Reduction Is Gain. Remember: when iron oxidises, it loses electrons and gains rust — a visible reminder that oxidation means giving electrons away.

⚗️ General Science 📖 Seen in: Human Body Systems — Organ Systems, Ph...

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