Illustrated Glossary of Organic Chemistry

Oxidation reaction: A chemical reaction in which oxidation occurs. Commonly seen as, but not limited to, increasing the number of bonds between carbon and oxygen.

Combustion of methane is an oxidation reaction because the carbon atom is oxidized.


Free radical halogenation of methane is an oxidation reaction because the carbon atom is oxidized.


Rusting of iron is an oxidation reaction because Fe⁰ is oxidized to Fe³⁺.


Reaction of sodium borohydride with acetone is a reduction reaction because the carbon atom of the carbonyl group is reduced.


Catalytic hydrogenation of propene is a reduction reaction because the carbon atoms of the alkene are reduced.