Question

Which of the following is not true for oxidation ?

• A. addition of oxygen
• B. addition of electronegative element
• C. removal of hydrogen
• D. removal of electronegative element

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Oxidation is typically defined by the following changes in a compound:

• Addition of oxygen: Oxidation often involves adding oxygen to a molecule (e.g., converting alcohols to aldehydes or ketones).
• Addition of electronegative element: Electronegativity is linked to oxidation because elements such as halogens (like chlorine) are often added in oxidation reactions, making the molecule more oxidized.
• Removal of hydrogen: Oxidation also involves the removal of hydrogen atoms from a molecule (e.g., oxidation of alkanes to alkene involves loss of hydrogen).

However, removal of electronegative element does not define oxidation. Removal of electronegative elements (like chlorine or oxygen) would lead to a reduction process, not oxidation.

The correct answer is (D) : removal of electronegative element.