Which of the following correctly represents the process of reduction?
Which of the following correctly represents the process of reduction?
Gain of oxygen
Increases in oxidation number
Gain of electron and addition
Loss of electron
Solution
Reduction is defined as:
Gain of electrons: When a substance accepts electrons, its oxidation state decreases.
Addition of hydrogen: In certain reactions, the addition of hydrogen is considered reduction.
Loss of oxygen: In other cases, the removal of oxygen signifies reduction.
Analysis of Options:
Gain of oxygen: This represents oxidation, not reduction.
Increases in oxidation number: An increase in oxidation number occurs in oxidation, not reduction.
Gain of electron and addition: This correctly describes reduction as a process involving the gain of electrons or the addition of hydrogen.
Loss of electron: This represents oxidation, not reduction.
Final Answer: (3) Gain of electron and addition