Redox is called "redox" because it's a combination of the words REDuction and OXidation.
Here's a breakdown:
- Oxidation: This process involves the loss of electrons by a substance.
- Reduction: This process involves the gain of electrons by a substance.
The term "redox" itself originated as a portmanteau in 1928, succinctly capturing the interdependent nature of these two processes. In any redox reaction, one substance is oxidized (loses electrons) while another is simultaneously reduced (gains electrons). You can't have one without the other! The transfer of electrons is the fundamental event.
To summarize:
- The name "redox" is derived directly from the terms "reduction" and "oxidation".
- It conveniently combines the two processes since they always occur together.
