reduction
In chemistry, the gain of electrons, loss of oxygen, or gain of hydrogen by an atom, ion, or molecule during a chemical reaction.
Reduction may be brought about by reaction with another compound, which is simultaneously oxidized (reducing agent), or electrically at the cathode (negative electrode) of an electric cell. Examples include the reduction of iron(III) oxide to iron by carbon monoxide:
the hydrogenation of ethene to ethane:
CH2 + H2 → CH3
CH3
and the reduction of a sodium ion to sodium:
| Photosynthesis – the series of chemical reactions inside chloroplasts – is essentially a mechanism for reducing carbon dioxide to carbohydrate. |
reduction
| An arrangement, especially from a complex to a simpler score, such as an opera ‘reduced’ to a vocal score or an orchestral work arranged for piano. |
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