oxidation-reduction reactions

Oxidation-reduction (redox) reactions are chemical processes involving the transfer of electrons between substances. Oxidation occurs when a molecule, atom, or ion loses electrons, often resulting in an increase in its positive charge. Reduction is when another substance gains those electrons, decreasing its positive charge. These reactions usually happen together—one substance is oxidized while another is reduced—like a transfer of energy or charge. Redox reactions are fundamental in many natural and technological processes, such as how your body generates energy, how batteries work, and how metals rust.