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Explain in terms of electrons transfer (a)Oxidation (b) Reduction

Oxidation

This is the name given to removal of electrons from a species - the reagent causing the loss of electrons is called the oxidising agent
Eg:

Mg(s) Mg2+ + 2e

In this (half) equation the magnesium atom loses electrons and becomes an ion.

Reduction

This is the gain of electrons - the species donating the electrons is called the reducing agent
Eg:
Fe3+ + 3e Fe(s)

In this (half) equation the iron III ion gains three electrons to become an atom.



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