Which process refers to the loss of electrons?

The process that refers to the loss of electrons is oxidation. In chemistry, oxidation is linked to the increase in the oxidation state of an atom or molecule as it donates electrons to another substance. This process plays a crucial role in various chemical reactions, particularly in redox (reduction-oxidation) reactions, where there is a transfer of electrons from one reactant to another.

In oxidation, when a substance loses electrons, it often interacts with other elements or compounds, which may gain those electrons, thereby undergoing reduction. This relationship between oxidation and reduction is fundamental in numerous chemical and biological processes, including combustion, respiration, and corrosion.

Understanding oxidation is essential for studies involving battery chemistry, metallurgical processes, and environmental science, as it helps in comprehending how substances interact in a variety of scenarios.