- Displacement reactions are redox — more reactive metal is oxidised, less reactive metal ion is reduced
- Reactions with acids — metal is oxidised (loses electrons), H⁺ is reduced to H₂
- Combustion — fuel is oxidised (gains oxygen)
- Rusting — iron is oxidised to iron oxide (Fe → Fe₂O₃)
- Extraction of metals — metal oxide is reduced (loses oxygen), carbon is oxidised
- Electrolysis — reduction at cathode (−), oxidation at anode (+)
- Batteries — redox reactions generate electrical energy
This key facts covers Key Facts: Redox Reactions in Context within Oxidation & Reduction for GCSE Chemistry. Revise Oxidation & Reduction in Chemical Changes for GCSE Chemistry with 20 exam-style questions and 20 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 8 of 14 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Practice questions for Oxidation & Reduction
What does OIL stand for in the mnemonic OIL RIG?
In the reaction Mg + CuSO₄ → MgSO₄ + Cu, identify which species is oxidised and which is reduced. (2 marks)
Quick recall flashcards
What does OIL RIG stand for?
Oxidation Is Loss (of electrons)
Reduction Is Gain (of electrons)
What is a redox reaction?
A reaction where oxidation and reduction happen simultaneously