Oxidation is a chemical reaction in which a substance loses electrons, resulting in an increase in its oxidation state.
It often involves the addition of oxygen or loss of hydrogen atoms.
Oxidation reactions are essential in various processes, such as combustion, rusting, and metabolism. In organic chemistry, oxidation reactions often convert functional groups into more oxidized forms.
Oxidation reactions can produce energy, generate heat, or cause materials to deteriorate, depending on the specific circumstances and substances involved.