Science glossary film: Oxidation

The process of gaining oxygen in a chemical reaction or more generally of losing electrons. In order for one substance to be oxidized, another must be reduced. So when lead oxide reacts with carbon to form lead and carbon monoxide, the carbon is oxidized as the lead oxide is reduced.

In order for one substance to be oxidized, another must be reduced. So when lead oxide reacts with carbon to form lead and carbon monoxide, the carbon is oxidized as the lead oxide is reduced.