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 Oxidation
OXIDATION: A reaction in which an element loses electrons
  During oxidation:
1. The element’s oxidation number increases.
Š This happens because electrons have a negative charge. Since the element is losing electrons, the oxidation state becomes more positive.
2. The electrons (that are lost) end up on the right side of the equation.
Na     Na+ + e- (e- = electrons)
There are many Regents questions on this topic.
To remember all this information, memorize LEO right.
• LEO: Lose electrons – oxidation. (This means that during oxidation, electrons are lost.)
• Right: The electrons go to the right side of the equation
• : The oxidation number goes up.
So repeat LEO right(LEO right up) ten times and you’re good to go!
         UNIT 10: OXIDATION & REDUCTION © 366
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