Which process involves the loss of electrons?

Which process involves the loss of electrons?

• A. Hydrolysis
• B. Oxidation
• C. Condensation
• D. Reduction

Answer: (B)

Loss of electrons happens during oxidation. In redox reactions, something gets oxidized when it loses electrons, so its oxidation state increases as electrons depart. This is why oxidation is the process described when electrons are removed. For example, metals tend to oxidize by forming positive ions as they transfer electrons to another substance. The other processes don’t center on electron transfer: hydrolysis uses water to break bonds, condensation releases water to join molecules, and reduction is the gain of electrons (the opposite of what’s described).

Loss of electrons happens during oxidation. In redox reactions, something gets oxidized when it loses electrons, so its oxidation state increases as electrons depart. This is why oxidation is the process described when electrons are removed. For example, metals tend to oxidize by forming positive ions as they transfer electrons to another substance. The other processes don’t center on electron transfer: hydrolysis uses water to break bonds, condensation releases water to join molecules, and reduction is the gain of electrons (the opposite of what’s described).