Which term describes the gain of electrons?

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Multiple Choice

Which term describes the gain of electrons?

Explanation:
Gaining electrons is called reduction. When a species accepts electrons, its oxidation state decreases by the number of electrons taken in, reflecting a reduction in charge. Oxidation is the opposite process—loss of electrons with an increase in oxidation state. Terms like cathode and anode point to where reactions occur in a cell, not the act of electron gain itself, so they describe locations rather than the process of gaining electrons.

Gaining electrons is called reduction. When a species accepts electrons, its oxidation state decreases by the number of electrons taken in, reflecting a reduction in charge. Oxidation is the opposite process—loss of electrons with an increase in oxidation state. Terms like cathode and anode point to where reactions occur in a cell, not the act of electron gain itself, so they describe locations rather than the process of gaining electrons.

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