BioMedical Admissions Test (BMAT) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Oxidation primarily involves the gain of oxygen by a substance. This process typically occurs in reactions where an atom, ion, or molecule combines with oxygen. While the classic definition of oxidation originally emphasized the addition of oxygen to a compound, it is important to note that in the context of redox (reduction-oxidation) reactions, oxidation is also characterized by the loss of electrons.

In organic chemistry, for example, the oxidation of alcohols to aldehydes or ketones involves the addition of oxygen and the loss of hydrogen, which also aligns with the broader definition of oxidation. This understanding underlines the relationship between oxygen gain and oxidation processes, making it a crucial concept in various chemical reactions.

The other options provided do not align with the fundamental concept of oxidation. Loss of electrons refers to reduction, which is the opposite process. Gain of electrons is not associated with oxidation but rather with reduction, thus providing a clear distinction between the two processes. Loss of protons relates more to acid-base reactions rather than oxidation states. Therefore, defining oxidation primarily by the gain of oxygen captures the essence of its role in chemical reactions.