oxidation

[ ok-si-dey-shuhn ]

noun

, Chemistry.

1. the process or result of oxidizing.
2. the deposit that forms on the surface of a metal as it oxidizes.

oxidation

/ ˌɒksɪˈdeɪʃən /

noun

1. 1. the act or process of oxidizing
   2. ( as modifier )

      an oxidation potential

      an oxidation state

oxidation

/ ŏk′sĭ-dā′shən /

1. The chemical combination of a substance with oxygen.
2. A chemical reaction in which an atom or ion loses electrons, thus undergoing an increase in valence. Removing an electron from an iron atom having a valence of +2 changes the valence to +3.
3. Compare reduction

oxidation

1. Any chemical reaction in which a material gives up electrons , as when the material combines with oxygen . Burning is an example of rapid oxidation; rusting is an example of slow oxidation. ( See combustion and reduction .)

Derived Forms

• ˈoxiˌdative, adjective
• ˌoxiˈdational, adjective

Other Words From

• oxi·dation·al oxi·dative adjective
• nonox·i·dation noun
• non·oxi·dative adjective
• nonox·i·di·zation noun
• over·oxi·di·zation noun
• reox·i·dation noun
• self-oxi·dation noun
• un·oxi·dative adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of oxidation¹

First recorded in 1785–95; oxide + -ation

Example Sentences

With black tea, after the leaves are picked they're exposed to air, which leads to oxidation.

From Salon

This allows electrons to be removed from the absorbed electron donors through solid-state ET oxidation reactions, resulting in the accumulation of holes in the donors inside the nanotube.

From Science Daily

The wine has a lot of oxidations, and it’s a sulfur bomb on the nose.

From Seattle Times

The study also found these microbes are associated with improved fat oxidation and metabolic health.

From Science Daily

Bacteria that consume the plant toxin sulfide are chemoautotrophs, using energy from sulfide oxidation to fuel the uptake of carbon dioxide to make their own organic carbon for growth.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• decay
• decomposition
• deterioration
• erosion
• rust