What does OILRIG stand for and what is the significance?

Oxidation Is Loss Reduction Is Gain = OILRIG

This is a helpful acronym to describe the term given to a loss or gain of electrons. If atom looses or gains an electron it becomes an ion, and the term to describe this process depends on whether an atom has lost (oxidation) or gained (reduction) an electron. 

For example, if Chlorine (Cl) becomes Cl- (a negatively charged ion we know it has gained an electron, since these carry negative charge. Therefore, we would say the chlorine atom has become reduced and a reduction reaction has occurred. 

Conversely, if Hydregen (H) becomes H+ (a positively charged ion, we know it has lost an electron, since it has become a positive ion. Therefore, we would say the hydrogen atom has become oxidised and a oxidation reaction has occurred. 

AC
Answered by Alice C. Chemistry tutor

83645 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Why does silver have a high melting point?


What's the difference between covalent and ionic bonding?


What is the difference between an Atom and an Ion?


What is the difference between oxidation and reduction?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences