Chemistry A-Level
Oxidation
What Oxidation means in Chemistry A-Level, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.
Definitions of Oxidation
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
The loss of electrons from a substance, resulting in an increase in its oxidation number.
The loss of electrons from a substance, or an increase in oxidation number.
The loss of electrons, resulting in an increase in oxidation number.
Topics that use Oxidation
- Topic 1: Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
- Topic 2: Bonding and Structure (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
- Topic 3: Redox I (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
Related terms
Using Oxidation in the exam
Definition questions usually carry one or two marks, and examiners look for the precise wording. Write the definition from memory, check it against the version above, and then use the term in a longer answer on the same topic so it sticks.
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