Oxidation States
Definition
Oxidation states, also known as oxidation numbers, are a measure of the degree of oxidation (loss of electrons) or reduction (gain of electrons) an atom has undergone. They help determine how electrons are shared in a chemical reaction.
Analogy
Think about it like keeping score in a game. If you gain points (electrons), your score decreases (you're reduced). If you lose points (electrons), your score increases (you're oxidized).
Related terms
Redox Reaction: A type of chemical reaction that involves a transfer of electrons between two species.
Electronegativity: The ability of an atom to attract shared electrons in a chemical bond towards itself.
Valence Electrons: The outermost electrons in an atom that participate in forming chemical bonds with other atoms.
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