What are the differences between oxidation and reduction reactions?

Question

Accepted Answer

Basis of differentiation

Oxidation reactions

Reduction reactions

Definition

Oxidation occurs when a reactant loses electrons during the reaction, resulting in an increase in oxidation number

Reduction occurs when a reactant gains electrons during the reaction, resulting in a decrease in oxidation number

Sign of oxidation state

(+)

(-)

Agent

Oxidizing agents cause oxidation and are themselves reduced

Reducing agents cause reduction and are themselves oxidized

Endothermic or exothermic

Are often exothermic

Are often endothermic

Basis of differentiation	Oxidation reactions	Reduction reactions
Definition	Oxidation occurs when a reactant loses electrons during the reaction, resulting in an increase in oxidation number	Reduction occurs when a reactant gains electrons during the reaction, resulting in a decrease in oxidation number
Sign of oxidation state	(+)	(-)
Agent	Oxidizing agents cause oxidation and are themselves reduced	Reducing agents cause reduction and are themselves oxidized
Endothermic or exothermic	Are often exothermic	Are often endothermic