Figure 1: OIL RIG — the key mnemonic for redox reactions
This diagram covers OIL RIG — The Golden Rule 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 2 of 14 in this topic. Focus on the labels, the relationships between parts, and the explanation that turns the diagram into an exam-ready answer.
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