Reduction - GCSE Chemistry Definition

What is reduction?

In GCSE Chemistry, reduction can be defined as:

• the loss of oxygen

• the gain of electrons

For example, in the extraction of iron from iron ore in a blast furnace:

Fe₂O₃ + 3CO → 2Fe + 3CO₂

• Iron(III) oxide is reduced to iron as it loses oxygen.

• The iron ions gain electrons to form iron atoms:

Fe³⁺ + 3e^-→ Fe

Reduction always occurs alongside oxidation in redox reactions, making it a fundamental concept in GCSE Chemistry. Understanding reduction is crucial for topics such as electrolysis, metal extraction, and energy changes in chemical reactions.