What happens to the electrons during a redox reaction?

In a redox reaction, the key characteristic is the transfer of electrons between different reactants. This process involves one atom or molecule losing electrons, a process known as oxidation, while another atom or molecule simultaneously gains those electrons, referred to as reduction. The transfer of electrons is fundamental to redox reactions and is what drives many chemical processes, including combustion, respiration, and corrosion.

By recognizing that one species loses electrons while another gains them, you can see how the conservation of charge is maintained throughout the reaction. This exchange facilitates the transformation of reactants into products and is crucial for understanding energy changes and chemical bonding in various reaction types. Thus, the correct statement reflects this essential characteristic of redox reactions.