What is the key characteristic of an oxidation–reduction reaction?

Question

A.
Electricity is gained.
B.
Electricity is lost.
C.
Electrons are exchanged.
D.
Electrons are gained.
E.
Electrons are lost.

Answer 1

The key characteristic of an oxidation–reduction (redox) reaction is:

C. Electrons are exchanged.

In a redox reaction, one substance loses electrons (oxidation) while another gains electrons (reduction), leading to the overall exchange of electrons between the reacting species.