What are Oxidation and Reduction?

Oxidation and Reduction forms the basis of Redox reactions - where electrons are exchanged between reactants to form new products.

Oxidation is the LOSS of electrons. Eg: Fe²⁺ - e^- --> Fe³⁺

Reduction is the GAIN of electrons. Eg: Cu²⁺ + e^- --> Cu⁺

By losing or gaining electrons, ions change oxidation states giving them variable chemical properties.