Oxidation V/S Reduction

 

Difference Between Oxidation and Reduction

Sr. No.	Oxidation	Reduction
1	Oxidation is the loss of electrons from an atom, ion, or molecule.	Reduction is the gain of electrons by an atom, ion, or molecule.
2	Oxidation increases the positive charge or decreases the negative charge of a species.	Reduction decreases the positive charge or increases the negative charge of a species.
3	It involves an increase in oxidation number.	It involves a decrease in oxidation number.
4	Substance undergoing oxidation acts as a reducing agent.	Substance undergoing reduction acts as an oxidising agent.
5	Example: Zn → Zn²⁺ + 2e⁻ (Zinc loses electrons).	Example: Cu²⁺ + 2e⁻ → Cu (Copper ion gains electrons).
6	Occurs at the anode in both galvanic and electrolytic cells.	Occurs at the cathode in both galvanic and electrolytic cells.
7	Involves the addition of oxygen or the removal of hydrogen.	Involves the removal of oxygen or the addition of hydrogen.
8	Example in a reaction: 2Mg + O₂ → 2MgO, Mg is oxidised.	Example in a reaction: 2Mg + O₂ → 2MgO, O₂ is reduced.

Conclusion:
Oxidation and reduction always occur together in a chemical reaction, known as a redox reaction. While one species loses electrons (oxidation), another gains electrons (reduction), ensuring conservation of charge.