What is the significance of redox reactions?

Redox reactions are significant due to their involvement in processes such as photosynthesis, combustion, respiration, and rusting. During photosynthesis, water is oxidized to produce oxygen and carbon dioxide is reduced to form glucose. In cellular respiration, glucose is oxidized to produce carbon dioxide and water, while oxygen is reduced to form water. Rusting is a slow oxidation process where iron reacts with oxygen and water to form iron oxide. ​In this process, iron is oxidized as it loses electrons, while oxygen is reduced. Combustion is a rapid redox reaction between a fuel and oxygen, producing heat and light, thus it is vital in producing energy. Thus, redox reactions are crucial for overall cell survival and growth.