Redox Reactions and Oxidation States
Redox reactions are everywhere in chemistry, and they're easier to understand than you might think. Oxidation means losing electrons (or gaining oxygen), whilst reduction means gaining electrons (or losing oxygen). Remember: "OIL RIG" - Oxidation Is Loss, Reduction Is Gain.
Oxidising agents accept electrons and get reduced themselves, while reducing agents donate electrons and get oxidised. Sometimes you'll see disproportionation reactions where the same element is both oxidised and reduced simultaneously.
Oxidation states help you track electron movement in compounds. Elements alone have an oxidation state of zero, but in compounds they show how many electrons are needed to reach zero. Group 1 metals are always +1, Group 2 are +2, oxygen is usually -2, and hydrogen is typically +1.
Quick Tip: When writing half equations, follow the steps: balance the main atom, add H₂O, add H⁺, then add electrons. This systematic approach works every time!