Oxidisation, also spelled oxidation, is a chemical process that involves the addition of oxygen to a substance or the removal of electrons from an atom or a molecule. It is a reaction that commonly occurs in the presence of an oxidizing agent, such as oxygen gas (O2), chlorine gas (Cl2), or an oxidizing compound, like hydrogen peroxide (H2O2).
When oxidisation takes place, it often results in a change in color, a release of heat, or the formation of a new compound known as an oxide. This process can occur rapidly, as seen when iron rusts, slowly, as in the browning of an apple, or even explosively, as observed in combustion reactions.
During oxidisation, there is typically a transfer of electrons from the substance being oxidized to the oxidizing agent. The oxidizing agent itself undergoes reduction, a complementary process to oxidisation, where it gains electrons. This simultaneous occurrence of oxidisation and reduction is referred to as a redox (oxidation-reduction) reaction.
Oxidisation processes have broad applications in various fields, including chemistry, biology, industry, and even everyday life. They are crucial for energy production, such as in cellular respiration and combustion reactions. Oxidisation reactions are also essential for the functioning of batteries, rusting prevention, and food preservation. In biological systems, they play a vital role in metabolic processes and the immune response. Furthermore, oxidisation is utilized in chemical synthesis, wastewater treatment, and the production of numerous chemicals and materials.
In summary, oxidisation refers to a chemical process that involves the addition of oxygen or the removal of electrons from a substance, resulting in various physical and chemical changes.
