An oxidation-reduction (redox) reaction is a type of chemical reaction that involves a transfer of electrons between two species. An oxidation-reduction reaction is any chemical reaction in which the oxidation number of a molecule, atom, or ion changes by gaining or losing an electron.
Some examples of redox reaction include the basic functions of life, including photosynthesis, respiration, combustion, and corrosion or rusting. Another example would be that of the oxidation of Zinc when treated with Hydrogen ions.
Zn+2H+ \(\rightarrow
\) Zn2+ +H2
The oxidation state of H changes from +1 to 0, and the oxidation state of Zn changes from 0 to +2. Hence, Zn is oxidized and acts as the reducing agent.
