What Are Redox Reactions? (Oxygen Exchange)

Learn the basics about the exchange of oxygen in oxidation-reduction reactions (REDOX) when learning about chemical reactions. In a chemical reaction, oxidation is oxygen GAIN and reduction is oxygen LOSS. A good example of oxidation is a combustion reaction. Hydrogen is a clean fuel that works by combination reaction with oxygen. Energy is released as bonds are formed, and this energy can be used to power cars or appliances. Oxygen also combines with metals. When oxygen reacts with iron, the iron is readily oxidised. This is why iron rusts. Haemoglobin in blood carries oxygen around the body by oxygen exchange reactions. The iron in the blood oxidises. Reduction is oxygen loss. Some oxides, when heated, release oxygen and are reduced. It is very important that we are able to make metal oxides lose oxygen, as pure metals that result from this process have unique properties that are useful for industry. For example, in a blast furnace. Coke is used to reduce iron ore (iron oxide) to iron metal. Simultaneous oxidation and reduction can take place in reactions, as happens in the blast furnace.