What is the definition of oxidation in terms of electrons?

Oxidation is defined as the loss of electrons from a substance. When an atom or molecule loses electrons, its oxidation state increases. This process is fundamental in redox (reduction-oxidation) reactions, where one species undergoes oxidation while another is reduced (gains electrons). The concept is crucial for understanding various chemical reactions, including those in metabolic pathways and electrochemistry.

In practical terms, when a substance experiences oxidation, it often becomes more positively charged due to the lack of negatively charged electrons. For example, the oxidation of metals typically results in the formation of cations, as the metal atoms lose electrons to form positive ions. This understanding of oxidation is essential for predicting the behavior of substances in reactions and their resulting charges.