Real-Life Examples of Redox Reactions
Some common examples of redox reactions that occur in our daily lives are discussed below:
Rust Formation
An iron or steel exposed to the air may have a reddish-brown rust coating, which is an example of redox reaction. When iron comes into contact with oxygen and moisture in the air, it undergoes oxidation to form iron oxide (rust). This reaction is known as rusting of iron and can be represented as:
4Fe(s) + 3O2β(g) β 2Fe2βO3β(s)
Here, iron (Fe) is oxidized from its elemental state to Fe2βO3β, while oxygen (O2β) is reduced.
Batteries
Redox reaction is the main point of the process of charge and discharge of battery. For example, in alkaline batteries, as the current flows through the zinc and manganese dioxide, an electrochemical reaction leading to the production of electricity occurs.
Just like in lithium-ion battery, the redox reactions between lithium ions and electrodes are responsible for their working.
Photosynthesis
Photosynthesis, which is the reaction in which the green plant, algae, and some of the bacteria transform light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose, is considered as an irreversible redox reaction.
Plants, during photosynthesis, absorb light energy which is then converted to chemical energy by the process of reduction of carbon dioxide to glucose using the chlorophyll. Likewise, water molecules are stripped away of their oxygen atom. Therefore, Photosynthesis is one of the key stages for the production of oxygen as well as synthesis of organic compounds that are important for the growth, development and nutrient uptake of the plants.
Corrosion of metals
Corrosion is the gradual degradation of metals due to chemical reactions with the environment, often involves redox processes. For instance, when silver tarnishes in the presence of sulfur compounds in the air, silver metal is oxidized to silver sulfide:
4Ag(s) + 2H2βS(g) + O2β(g) β 2Ag2βS(s) + 2H2βO(l)
In this reaction, silver (Ag) is oxidized, while sulfur compounds are reduced.
Cooking
The process of cooking also sometimes involves redox reactions. In this case, when meat is grilled or roasted, a conversion of amino acids and reducing sugar takes place which is a reaction between amino acids and reducing sugars that are responsible for the changes in the flavor, color, and aroma of the cooked food.
Cleaning Agents
Many common domestic cleaning agents (like bleaches for instance) undergo redox reactions which help in the removal of dirt and disinfection of surfaces. An oxidizing agent like bleach kills organic stains by introducing oxidation.
Digestion
Redox reactions, the types of reactions that involve the transfer of electrons, perform some crucial functions within the digestion process. As an example, enzymes of the digestive system perform the breaking of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats into more straightforward molecules. Oxidation-reduction reactions that follow then lead to a release of energy that is utilized by the body for different functions.
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Examples of Redox Reactions in Everyday Life
Redox reactions reactions play a crucial role in various chemical processes, both in nature and in human-made systems. These reactions involve the transfer of electrons between reactants, leading to changes in the oxidation states of the elements involved.
This article discusses redox reactions, their significance in everyday life, examples, identification, and their impact on environmental stability.